Dry Needling

Dry Needling is a form of acupuncture, sometimes called 'modern acupuncture', and is used for the treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction. The approach is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. Not to be confused with the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique of acupuncture (Travell & Simons 1999).

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How does it work?

It involves sticking fine needles into points on the body, though it is rarely painful. It relieves pain by diverting or changing the painful sensations, which are sent to the brain from damaged tissues and also by stimulating the body's own painkillers (endorphins and encephalins). This pain killing effect may only last a short time at the beginning, but repeated treatment (usually approx 6 weekly sessions) can bring long term benefit, often over a period of 6-9 months.

When acupuncture is added to other conventional therapies, it relieves pain and improves function better than the conventional therapies alone. Dry-needling appears to be a useful adjunct to other therapies for chronic low-back pain.

Dry Needling can be used as a stand alone treatment, or incorporated into an osteopathic treatment or massage.

Who can benefit?

Conditions which respond to dry needling include:

Headaches
Frozen Shoulder
Tennis Elbow
Muscle Spasms
Fibromyalgia
Sciatic Pain
Hip Pain
Knee Pain
Repetitive Strain Injuries

TESTIMONIALS

Rarely do you find a more motivated and a professional therapist like Howard. He is not only technically very good, but he also possesses great inter-personal skills.

M. Nielsen (Spa Director, La Manga Club Spa, Spain)

I have been seeing Howard for sports massage for a number of years. Howard is excellent at pinpointing the trouble spots and is one of the best masseurs I have come across. A weekly session with Howard keeps my body in shape for competition.

F. Lawrence (Ironman World Championships 2008 finisher)

Howard has really helped to keep me on the road over the years and I'd recommend him to anyone. As a regular long-distance runner and triathlete, I always have tight and tired muscles, but after every session I leave with legs feeling much looser and fresher. He's not afraid to make you hurt a bit to really get at those tight spots!

A. Greenwood (Serpentine Running Club)

I cannot emphasise strongly enough the benefits of Osteopathy and deep soft tissue massages. For a number of years I have used in tandem both of these treatments during injury and as a general ongoing maintenance to prevent injuries.

Howard has been one of the practitioners at the practice I go to in Hatfield (The Hatfield Practice) and the treatment I have received from him has certainly helped me.

Graham (Runner with St Albans Striders)

I have the pleasure of working with Howard at events and have taken full advantage of his skills. Any treatment, from manipulation to massage, I received from Howard has been a success and long lasting on the many issues I have. So much so he is always in immediate demand when we meet up! Thanks Howard.

C.Styles-Coles (Sports Massage Therapist at Human Race sports events)

Rave reviews from wounded. Ta.

Nigel (Head Coach at the Civil Service Rugby Club)