Dry Needling at Fysio & Motion – Effective Treatment for Tight Muscles
Do you suffer from persistent muscle tension or stiffness that won’t go away? Dry needling is a specialised treatment where our physiotherapists use an ultra-thin needle to target muscle knots (trigger points). This causes a short muscle contraction, followed by immediate relaxation and improved blood flow. The result: reduced pain and greater mobility after the dry needling treatment.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a muscle relaxation treatment. Dry needling is not acupuncture, even though a similar needle is used. Acupuncture typically involves placing multiple needles superficially to influence energy pathways. In dry needling, the physiotherapist usually uses one needle to directly target a specific trigger point within the muscle. This quickly reduces muscle tension and relieves pain.
A dry needling trigger point is a tight band or knot in the muscle that can cause pain locally or radiate to other parts of the body – for example, in the glutes, shoulders, neck, or around the shoulder blade.
How does dry needling work?
Our physiotherapist, who specializes dry needling, will first locate the trigger point by palpating the muscle. Using a sterile, single-use needle, the point is briefly stimulated. This may cause a twitch or cramp-like sensation, but is followed by almost instant relaxation. Many clients notice reduced pain and improved range of motion immediately after treatment.
Benefits of dry needling:
- Instant relaxation of the treated muscle
- Improved blood circulation for faster recovery
- Reduction of both local and referred pain
- Increased joint mobility
When is dry needling recommended?
Dry needling can be effective for:
- Chronic muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or back
- Headaches or tension headaches caused by muscle knots
- Pain in the glutes, hamstrings, or calves
- Movement limitations after injury
- Shoulder pain and discomfort around the shoulder blade
- Neck and back pain from deep muscle trigger points
How many dry needling sessions are needed?
The number of dry needling sessions depends on the severity and duration of your symptoms. Some clients see results after just one dry needling session, while long-standing issues may require multiple treatments. Our dry needling therapists often combine dry needling with exercise therapy and lifestyle advice to ensure long-lasting results.
Does dry needling hurt?
Inserting the needle is usually not painful. Trigger point stimulation can cause a brief sharp or cramping sensation. This is a sign the right spot has been targeted. Afterwards, you may feel mild soreness or stiffness for a day or two – this is normal and part of the healing process.
When should you avoid dry needling?
Dry needling is not recommended if you:
- Are in the first trimester of pregnancy
- Have skin infections or wounds at the treatment site
- Have bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners
- Have severe needle phobia preventing treatment
- Are recovering from certain acute illnesses or conditions
Dry needling in Amsterdam and surrounding areas
At Fysio & Motion, you can receive dry needling in Amsterdam North, Diemen, IJburg, Oostzaan, Assendelft, and Wormer. Our experienced therapists – including Chandra Napitupulu, Mick Martens, and Darius de Vries – have successfully treated a wide range of muscle-related conditions. We often combine dry needling with other physiotherapy techniques for the best outcome.
Client experiences with dry needling
Many clients report immediate improvements after their first session, such as reduced pain and increased mobility. Athletes often find that their performance improves as muscles become looser and more efficient.
Book your appointment
Want to know if dry needling can help you? Book an intake session with one of our specialists. We can see you within 24 hours.
Locations: Amsterdam North, Diemen, IJburg, Oostzaan, Assendelft, Wormer
Appointment within 24 hours
Call us or book online today
