Dry Needling

Our osteopath Richard Williams is also trained in dry needling, a technique that can provide several benefits, including pain relief and relaxation. Dry needling can form part of an osteopathy appointment, should both you and Richard agree it is suitable. Richard will only use dry needling after discussion with you and with your consent.

What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique to treat muscle pain, which involves inserting thin needles (similar to acupuncture needles) into muscle knots or trigger points. This can help release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. It is distinct from acupuncture, which is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, as dry needling is grounded in Western medicine and focuses specifically on musculoskeletal pain.

Benefits of Dry Needling

Pain Relief: the primary benefit of dry needling is the reduction of muscle pain, through releasing tight knots in muscles.
Muscle Relaxation: dry needling can induce a relaxation effect through stimulating muscle fibers. This can decrease tightness and spasms in overactive muscles.
Improved Blood Circulation: dry needling enhances blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Increased Range of Motion: as tight muscles relax and pain is reduced, joint mobility and range of motion can improve, which is especially useful in cases of stiff or immobile joints due to muscle tension.
Accelerated Healing: the process can stimulate the body’s natural healing response, by encouraging the body to repair damaged muscle tissue. This can speed up recovery from injuries.
Decreased Inflammation: the release of muscle tension helps to reduce localised swelling and inflammation in the affected area, further alleviating pain.
Improved Functionality: patients often experience better functional movement and reduced pain during daily activities or exercise after dry needling.
Trigger Point Deactivation: dry needling targets “trigger points”: hypersensitive areas within muscle tissue that can cause referred pain. By deactivating these points, it can relieve pain that may radiate to other body parts.

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Areas That Respond Best to Dry Needling

Dry needling is most effective for areas where muscle tension and trigger points commonly occur. These areas are often the source of chronic pain and discomfort. Some of the areas that respond best include neck and upper back, shoulders, lower back, hips, legs (particularly the hamstrings, quadriceps and calves), plantar fascia in the feet, arms and elbows and the TMJ.

Who Should Avoid Dry Needling?

Although dry needling is generally considered safe, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain conditions, such as the following, should consult a healthcare provider before undergoing dry needling therapy:

Active infections
Blood clotting disorders (like hemophilia or those on blood thinners)
Pregnancy
Allergies to the needle material

If you would like to try dry needling, book an osteopathy appointment with Richard Williams and he will advise you of its suitability.

Testimonials

See what our happy patients have to say about us!

"Sarah has been wonderful in helping me to understand and resolve pain in my back and arm. I had tried a number of other treatments before I tried osteopathy with Sarah, and was thrilled that within a few sessions the pain had gone. Sarah's kind, empathetic and gentle approach is fantastic, especially if you feel nervous about treatment. The whole session is very relaxing and Sarah explains everything clearly each step of the way. I think the way that Sarah works with you to heal yourself is quite magical and leaves you feeling much stronger and capable than ever. I'm very grateful to Sarah for her help and expertise."

R.K

"I have been going to Anna for many years for various ailments and I am particularly pleased with the reduction in the level of my tinnitus from jaw manipulation."

Jenna R

"Anna has been treating me for chronic TMJ issues and ear pressure issues using myofunctional therapy and osteopathy work. I have seen numerous senior ENT related specialists over the last few months and Anna has been the only one to help me. I cannot recommend her kind nature, understanding, patience and incredible knowledge enough"

Emma C

"I have been treated many times by Jecy for various tissue problems and have felt very confident about the advice and exercises that were recommended. I highly recommend using her undoubted skills."

David F

"I have been coming to Cranleigh Osteopaths for a long time now, being treated for complex health issues resulting from illness, multiple injuries and operations. I’ve always been treated by Sam, and can honestly say that there has not been a single time when I have not felt far, far better after the session."

Adam K

"I have had regular great sports massages from Neil for almost a year now. He is very professional and knowledgeable and always delivers great treatment techniques for my neck and shoulder injury. Neil is always friendly and welcoming which makes each visit a pleasure."

Rachel D

"Sam and her team are amazing.. If they can they will go over and above for every one."

Mr and Mrs Funnell

"Thank you Sam for always getting me straight. Fantastic relaxed and welcoming feeling. Feel so safe in your hands."

Susannah Alford

"Positive experience and professional service from Richard"

Katharine Anne

"Sam and the team at Cranleigh Osteopaths are miracle workers! They are approachable, kind and professional. Can’t recommend enough."

Mrs K

"I go to Cranleigh Osteopathic Practice for help with my chronic back pain and hypermobility. They are friendly, reassuring and professional and every time I leave feeling loads better! "

Peter B

"I was lucky enough to get a last-minute appointment with Richard yesterday at Cranleigh Osteopaths. He came highly recommended and I have to say that he is amazing. His manner is gentle and he instils great confidence. I have always arrived rather broken, but the next day I feel a different person - lighter, with more mobility and in happier spirits. "

Nicky

"I receive regular treatment by Sarah Ellen at Cranleigh Osteopathic Practice for on-going back and hip issues caused by an old injury and continued high impact activity. Sarah will identify areas that need treating, concentrating on the body as a whole and finding connected issues. I always leave feeling flexible and pain free. I can highly recommend her treatment. "

Emma

"Richard is extremely knowledgeable and very effective. I first saw him in about 20 years ago after a car accident and I have always felt welcome to return whether I’ve left it days, months or years. He has been able to help various problems including dizziness and neck and back pain. He is very thorough and has a very wholesome and holistic approach."

Sian

Ready to book?

Click the link below or if you would prefer to speak to someone, please call 01483 268628. Our reception is open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and 8:30am-5:30pm on Saturday.

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