Shoulder pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages, whether due to poor posture, repetitive strain, injury, or underlying conditions like rotator cuff dysfunction and frozen shoulder. While traditional treatments like physical therapy, massage, and medication can help, many individuals are turning to dry needling as an effective way to relieve pain and restore mobility.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into trigger points—tight muscle knots that cause pain and limit movement. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in modern anatomy and targets neuromuscular dysfunction. By stimulating trigger points, dry needling helps:

✔ Release muscle tightness
✔ Improve blood flow
✔ Reduce inflammation
✔ Restore normal function

How Dry Needling Helps Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain often results from tight and overworked muscles, particularly in the:

• Rotator cuff muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis)
• Trapezius and levator scapulae (upper back and neck muscles that contribute to shoulder tension)
• Deltoid and pectoral muscles (which play a role in arm movement and stability)

Trigger points in these muscles can cause deep, aching pain, stiffness, and even referred pain down the arm or into the neck. Dry needling directly targets these tight spots, promoting relaxation and faster healing.

What to Expect During a Dry Needling Session for Shoulder Pain

Here’s what a typical session looks like:

1. Muscle Assessment – Our therapist starts by examining your shoulder and identifies trigger points.
2. Needle Insertion – A thin, sterile needle is inserted into tight muscle knots.
3. Twitch Response – You may feel a quick muscle twitch, a sign of muscle relaxation.
4. Short Wait Time – The needle remains in place for a few minutes to maximize effectiveness.
5. Post-Treatment Sensation – Some mild soreness is normal, but patients often experience pain relief within a few days.

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment. Some patients may experience temporary soreness or mild bruising, but these effects typically resolve within a day or two.

Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling for Shoulder Pain?

If you experience:

✔ Rotator cuff injuries
✔ Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
✔ Shoulder impingement
✔ Muscle knots and tension
✔ Postural-related pain
✔ Pain from repetitive use (sports, work-related strain)

Dry needling may be a great addition to your treatment plan. It’s often combined with physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises for long-term relief.

Shoulder pain can be frustrating and limiting, but dry needling offers a targeted, drug-free solution to relieve pain and restore function.

For further information regarding treatment contact our experienced reception team or to book your appointment click here. 

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