Dry needling is a term that differentiates the use of needling in a western medicine paradigm from the use of needling under chinese medicine philosophies (referred to as acupuncture). Dry needling involves the application of needles to altered or dysfunctional soft tissue in order to improve or restore normal function.
Physiotherapist’s require advanced training to utilise dry needling as part of their treatment program. Dry needling is not used with every patient, it is simply an additional treatment option in appropriate cases.
Before using dry needling, your physiotherapist will fully discuss the procedure with you, and obtain your consent to employ this technique.