Dry needling: An effective method for pain relief
- New motion physiotherapie
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Many patients who hear about dry needling for the first time react skeptically: "Needles? Doesn't that sound like acupuncture?" Does it hurt? And does it really help? In this article, I, as a physiotherapist in Winterthur, explain exactly what dry needling is, how it works, and for whom it is suitable.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a physiotherapy treatment method. Thin, single-use needles are inserted precisely into so-called myofascial trigger points. These are hypersensitive, hardened areas in the muscle tissue, often known as "muscle knots" or "knots." The "dry" refers to the fact that no substance is injected. The needle alone creates the therapeutic effect. This clearly distinguishes dry needling from injection therapies.
Dry needling vs. acupuncture: What is the difference?
I hear this question very often. The difference is fundamental:
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and works with energy pathways (meridians).
Dry needling is based on Western anatomy and neurophysiology, specifically targeting muscle and connective tissue.
The needles are similar, but the theory and target points are completely different.
Dry needling is a scientifically sound, physiotherapeutic technique, not an alternative medical method.
How does dry needling work in the body?
When the needle hits a trigger point, the following happens:
A brief local twitch response ("Local Twitch Response") of the muscle reacts with a small cramp.
Blood flow in the area of the trigger point is increased.
Anti-inflammatory messenger substances are released.
Muscle tension decreases, the "knot" loosens.
Pain perception in the nervous system is inhibited (gate control mechanism).
Many patients experience significant relief even during the treatment.
For which conditions does dry needling help?
Dry needling is particularly suitable for:
Chronic neck and back pain.
Tension headaches originating in the neck.
Shoulder and arm pain (e.g., shoulder impingement, tennis elbow).
Hip and knee problems in athletes.
Plantar fasciitis (heel spur).
Muscle stiffness after sports or one-sided strain.
Does dry needling hurt?
That's the question I hear most often. The answer is: It's not a pleasant tickle, but it's not intense pain either. Most patients describe it as a brief, deep pulling or pressing sensation upon insertion and the twitch reflex. After the treatment, the muscle may be slightly sore for 24–48 hours, similar to after an intense workout. This is a normal sign that the body is reacting and recovering.
This is how a dry needling treatment at New Motion Physio works
1. Assessment
First, I analyze your symptoms, posture, and movement patterns to identify the relevant trigger points.
2. Treatment
The needles are inserted precisely, usually for 5 to 15 minutes. Depending on the findings, I combine dry needling with manual therapy or targeted exercises.
3. Follow-up care
I will give you specific instructions for the period after the treatment: warmth, movement, hydration, so that the effect lasts optimally.
Would you like to try dry needling?
Book your appointment in Winterthur now:
Frequently Asked Questions about Dry Needling (FAQ)
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the type and duration of your symptoms. For acute tension, 2–5 sessions are often sufficient. For chronic conditions, I recommend 6–9 sessions, combined with targeted exercises to do at home.
Is dry needling covered by health insurance?
Yes — with a doctor's prescription, dry needling is covered by basic health insurance (KVG) as well as supplementary insurance (complementary medicine). I work with all Swiss health insurance companies. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have questions about coverage.
For whom is dry needling not suitable?
Dry needling is not recommended for those with a fear of needles, blood clotting disorders, during pregnancy (certain points), or in cases of local skin inflammation. During the initial consultation, we will determine together whether this method is suitable for you.
How does dry needling differ from a regular massage?
A massage works on the muscle from the outside. Dry needling reaches the trigger point directly inside the muscle, making it particularly effective for deep-seated, stubborn tension.
Can I work normally after the treatment?
In most cases, yes. Since the muscle may be slightly sore for 24–48 hours, I recommend avoiding strenuous exercise on that day. Office work and everyday activities are perfectly fine.
New Motion Physio | Physiotherapy Winterthur
