Physiotherapy Puncture with Dry Needles

What Is Physiotherapy Dry Needling?

Physiotherapy dry needling is a treatment technique used in physiotherapy to help relieve certain types of muscle pain and improve how the body functions. Increasingly integrated into musculoskeletal and sports rehabilitation treatment plans, this approach targets muscle tension and painful points that may limit movement or interfere with daily activities.

How Does It Work?

Dry needling involves inserting very thin, solid, sterile needles into targeted muscle areas called trigger points. These areas are often associated with tension, taut bands, local or referred pain, reduced mobility, or a sensation of muscle stiffness. Unlike traditional acupuncture, dry needling is based on a biomechanical and physiotherapy assessment aimed at treating the musculoskeletal structures involved in the patient’s condition.

When Can Dry Needling Be Used?

This technique can be used in several contexts, including neck and back pain, sports injuries, tendinitis, shoulder or hip pain, as well as certain persistent muscle tensions and some types of bursitis. It is primarily an addition to a global treatment approach that may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and personalized advice.

What Happens During a Session?

During a session, the physiotherapist first performs a complete assessment to determine whether dry needling is appropriate for the patient’s condition. Since the needles used are very thin, the treatment is generally well tolerated. Some people may feel a muscle contraction or a sensation of release in the treated muscle. After the session, temporary sensitivity similar to post-workout muscle soreness may be present for a few hours or a few days.

The goal of dry needling is not only to reduce pain, but also to improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support a more comfortable return to daily activities, work, or sports. Although it may provide rapid relief in some cases, this approach remains most effective when integrated into a personalized treatment plan.

Who Can Perform Dry Needling in Quebec?

In Quebec, physiotherapy dry needling is performed by physiotherapists who have completed specific training and meet the professional requirements governing this intervention. Safety, hygiene, and clinical assessment remain at the heart of every treatment to ensure care that is adapted to each patient’s needs.

If you are wondering whether dry needling may be appropriate for your condition, do not hesitate to consult a physiotherapist at our clinic. An assessment will help determine the most appropriate approaches to help you regain comfort and mobility.

Written by Pierre-Luc Tessier, physiotherapist at the Action Sport Physio Saint-Bruno clinic.