While both methods incorporate the application of fine needles to stimulate particular areas of the body, dry needling primarily targets myofascial trigger points to alleviate muscle tension and discomfort. In contrast, acupuncture draws on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles and seeks to harmonise energy flow along specific meridians within the body. At Movement Mechanics Osteopathy, we use both Western Medical Acupuncture & Dry Needling Techniques. Western Medical Acupuncture is an adaptation of traditional Chinese acupuncture, incorporating principles and techniques from both Eastern and Western medicine. Western Medical Acupuncture aims to provide a scientific and evidence-based approach to acupuncture, utilising anatomical knowledge, neurophysiological concepts, and research evidence to guide treatment decisions. It is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments for various conditions, including pain management, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain chronic conditions.

When administered by a qualified and experienced Osteopath, dry needling is typically considered safe. Nonetheless, similar to any medical intervention, potential risks or side effects may exist. Your therapist will thoroughly address and explain these matters before commencing the treatment.

We use premium Japanese needles that are very thin, and you may or may not feel the needle enter your skin. If the muscle being needled is tight and/or sensitive, you will feel a cramping or twitch sensation. This is very short-lasting, and patients soon learn to recognise this sensation as therapeutic as it is followed by a feeling of pain relief and muscle relaxation. The practitioner usually manually stimulates the needle to bring on an achy sensation called De Qi.

The most common side effect is temporary muscle soreness after the treatment. This typically lasts for a day or two, and your clinician will instruct you on minimising this. There are other less common side effects, such as bruising and nerve irritation. If you have any questions about side effects, please discuss this with your clinician.

While the risks are very small, there are some risks to consider when having Acupuncture or Dry Needling. • Pneumothorax: This occurs when the needle pierces the lung. The possibility is remote as our clinicians will needle with caution near lung fields, but they will advise you when they are in this area. If you feel short of breath or pain with breathing after a needling session in this area, visit your local Emergency Department immediately. • Vasovagal reaction: This rarely occurs and is the most common form of fainting, usually recurrent to a specific trigger (which can be dry needling). This usually resolves with a few minutes of rest and some sugar intake. Ensuring you are hydrated, rested and have eaten a meal in the past 6 hours reduces this risk. If you have had a fainting episode from needling/injections in the past, please inform our clinicians. • Infection: The possibility is present, even though it is remote. Our clinicians will maintain the highest standard for clean and sterile needling techniques. However, it is an entry wound for infection to occur, similar to any injection you have had in the past. Keep the wound clean until it heals. • Neuropraxia: This type of nerve injury is characterised by a temporary disruption in the normal conduction of nerve impulses. It is the mildest form of nerve injury and can occur when a needle hits a nerve. Neuropraxia can lead to symptoms such as temporary loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or changes in reflexes in the affected area. However, the nerve fibres remain intact, and with time and appropriate management, neuropraxia often resolves independently without long-term damage.