Dry Needling
Expert Dry Needling Physiotherapy in Mayfair London for Pain Relief
Dry needling is an effective, evidence-informed treatment used to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore normal movement. At Seventeen Physiotherapy Clinic in Mayfair, London, dry needling is delivered by highly trained clinicians as part of a personalised, holistic rehabilitation programme tailored to your body, lifestyle, and goals.
Whether you are experiencing persistent muscle tightness, sports-related pain, postural strain, or long-standing discomfort, dry needling can play a powerful role in helping you move more freely and comfortably.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a specialised physiotherapy technique that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points within muscles, known as myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are tight bands of muscle that can cause pain locally or refer pain to other areas of the body.
The term “dry” refers to the fact that no medication or injection is used. Instead, the therapeutic effect comes from the precise placement of the needle, which stimulates the nervous system and muscular tissue to release tension, improve blood flow, and promote natural healing processes.
Dry needling is different from traditional acupuncture. While acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and energy meridians, dry needling is grounded in Western anatomy, physiology, and modern pain science.
What Does Dry Needling Treat?
Dry needling is primarily used to treat muscle pain, stiffness, and dysfunction. Tight or overactive muscles can restrict movement, alter posture, and place excess strain on joints and surrounding tissues. By targeting these dysfunctional muscle areas directly, dry needling helps to reset normal muscle function.
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It is particularly effective when pain persists despite stretching, massage, or exercise alone. Dry needling is often integrated with physiotherapy, osteopathy, massage, and rehabilitation exercises to provide longer-lasting results.
What Happens During a Dry Needling Session?
Your dry needling session at Seventeen Physiotherapy Clinic begins with a thorough assessment. Your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle factors, and movement patterns to determine whether dry needling is appropriate for you.
During treatment:
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You will be positioned comfortably to allow safe access to the affected muscles
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Fine, single-use needles are inserted into targeted trigger points
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You may feel a brief muscle twitch, ache, or cramping sensation
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The needles are typically left in place for a short period or gently manipulated
Most patients describe the sensation as uncomfortable but tolerable, and the treatment is usually brief. After treatment, you may experience temporary soreness, similar to post-exercise muscle ache, which typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling works through several physiological mechanisms:
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Trigger point release: The needle disrupts tight muscle fibres, allowing them to relax and lengthen
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Improved circulation: Increased blood flow supports tissue repair and oxygen delivery
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Pain modulation: Stimulation of the nervous system reduces pain signals
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Neuromuscular reset: Helps restore normal muscle activation and coordination
By addressing the root cause of muscle dysfunction rather than just symptoms, dry needling supports more effective and sustainable recovery.
What Conditions Can Dry Needling Treat?
Dry needling can be beneficial for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
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Neck and shoulder pain
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Lower back pain and stiffness
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Headaches and tension-type migraines
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Sports injuries and muscle strains
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Hip and pelvic pain
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Knee pain and IT band syndrome
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Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
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Plantar fasciitis and calf tightness
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Postural and desk-related muscle pain
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Chronic pain conditions involving muscular tension
Your physiotherapist will advise whether dry needling is suitable based on your individual presentation and treatment goals.
Dry Needling as Part of a Holistic Treatment Plan
At Seventeen Physiotherapy Clinic, dry needling is rarely used in isolation. We take a multidisciplinary, whole-body approach, combining dry needling with:
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Hands-on physiotherapy or osteopathy
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Exercise rehabilitation and movement retraining
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Postural correction and ergonomic advice
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Shockwave or TECAR therapy where appropriate
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Clinical Pilates for long-term strength and control
This integrated approach ensures that pain relief is supported by improved movement, strength, and resilience, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Dry needling is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by trained and regulated healthcare professionals. At our London clinic, all treatments are carried out by qualified practitioners using strict hygiene and safety standards.
You will be fully informed about the procedure, potential sensations, and aftercare advice before treatment begins.
Why Choose Seventeen Physiotherapy Clinic?
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Experienced physiotherapists with advanced dry needling training
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Personalised, one-to-one care in a calm clinical environment
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Central London location in Hanover Square, Mayfair
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Evidence-based treatments tailored to your lifestyle and goals
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Holistic focus on long-term recovery and wellbeing
Book Dry Needling in London
If muscle pain or tension is limiting your movement or quality of life, dry needling may help. Our expert team will assess your needs and design a treatment plan that works for you.
Book your appointment today or contact us to learn more about dry needling at Seventeen Physiotherapy Clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is dry needling painful?
Dry needling can feel uncomfortable, particularly when a trigger point is stimulated. You may experience a brief muscle twitch or aching sensation. Most patients tolerate it well, and discomfort is usually short-lived. Any post-treatment soreness typically settles within one to two days.
2. How many dry needling sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your condition, symptoms, and response to treatment. Some patients notice improvement after one session, while others benefit from a short course combined with physiotherapy or exercise rehabilitation for longer-lasting results.
3. What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Dry needling is based on Western anatomy and targets specific muscle trigger points to relieve pain and dysfunction. Acupuncture follows traditional Chinese medicine principles and energy meridians. While both use needles, their assessment methods, treatment goals, and clinical frameworks differ.
4. Is dry needling safe for everyone?
Dry needling is safe for most people but may not be suitable in certain situations, such as pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or needle phobia. Your physiotherapist will complete a full assessment and discuss any contraindications before recommending treatment.
5. What should I do after a dry needling session?
After treatment, stay hydrated, keep moving gently, and avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours if advised. Mild soreness is normal. Your physiotherapist may provide stretches or exercises to support recovery and maximise the benefits of treatment.
6. Can dry needling help with chronic pain?
Yes, dry needling can be effective for chronic pain related to muscle tension and dysfunction. When combined with education, movement retraining, and rehabilitation exercises, it can help reduce pain sensitivity and improve long-term function.
7. Do I need a referral for dry needling?
No referral is required. You can book directly with our physiotherapists. If needed, we can also liaise with your GP or specialist to ensure coordinated care as part of your overall treatment plan.