Acupuncture/Dry Needling (MSK Only)

Musculoskeletal (MSK) acupuncture — often referred to as dry needling — is a targeted treatment used to address muscle pain, tension, and movement dysfunction.

It involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific muscles and soft tissues to:

Reduce muscle tightness

Decrease pain

Improve joint mobility

Support recovery from injury

This is a clinical, evidence-informed approach, based on modern anatomy and pain science — not traditional Chinese medicine or energy meridians.

As an Osteopath, Sian uses MSK acupuncture/dry needling specifically to support the treatment of mechanical and muscular conditions.

How Does It Work?

 

Dry needling works through several physiological mechanisms:

1. Release of Trigger Points

Tight bands within muscles (often called trigger points) can cause local or referred pain. Inserting a needle into these areas can help the muscle relax and reset.

2. Improved Blood Flow

The needling process stimulates circulation to the area, promoting oxygen delivery and tissue healing.

3. Nervous System Modulation

Needling can reduce pain sensitivity by influencing how the nervous system processes pain signals.

4. Reduced Muscle Guarding

When pain or injury occurs, muscles often tighten protectively. Dry needling helps interrupt this cycle and restore normal movement patterns.

You may feel:

A small twitch response in the muscle

Mild aching for 24–48 hours afterward

Gradual improvement in pain and mobility

What Can It Help With?

 

MSK acupuncture/dry needling is commonly used for:

Neck & Back Pain

Mechanical low back pain

Neck stiffness

Muscle spasm

Shoulder Problems

Rotator cuff irritation

Frozen shoulder

Shoulder impingement

Headaches/Migraines

Tension-type headaches

Neck-related headaches

Migraines

Hip & Leg Issues

Gluteal pain

Hamstring tightness

IT band discomfort

Hip arthritis

Knee & Ankle Pain

Patellar tendon pain

Calf tightness

Achilles tendon issues

Knee arthritis

Sports & Activity-Related Pain

Muscle strains

Overuse injuries

Trigger point pain

Is It Safe?

 

Our clinics are registered and inspected with both Swansea and Carmarthenshire councils. Sian has undergone additional infection control and hygiene training in line with the new 2024 All Wales scheme and Public Health (Wales) Act 2017.

When performed by a trained healthcare professional, dry needling is considered safe. All needles are:

Single-use

Sterile

Disposed of safely after treatment

A thorough assessment is carried out beforehand to ensure suitability.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

 

This varies depending on the condition, but many people notice change within:

1–3 sessions for acute muscle issues

4–6 sessions for more persistent pain

It can be used as a standalone treatment or alongside rehabilitation exercises.