What to Expect in Your First Dry Needling Session: A Physiotherapist’s Perspective

Understanding Dry Needling: The Basics

Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique used by physiotherapists to treat myofascial trigger points, commonly known as “knots.” These tight bands of muscle can restrict movement, cause referred pain, and lead to chronic tension or discomfort. During the procedure, a thin, sterile monofilament needle is inserted into specific trigger points or tight areas within the muscle. 

Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and energy meridians, dry needling is rooted in Western medical science and focuses on musculoskeletal anatomy and neurophysiology. 

The goal is to release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms—helping you recover faster and move better.

Before Your First Session: What You Should Know

Before starting your dry needling treatment, your physiotherapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand your pain history, posture, muscle function, and any underlying issues. This step ensures that the treatment is both safe and effective. Here’s what typically happens during the pre-session phase:

1. Medical History Review
   Your therapist will ask about your medical conditions, medications, or previous injuries. This helps them rule out any contraindications such as bleeding disorders, pregnancy (in specific areas), or certain skin conditions.
2. Explaining the Procedure
   You’ll be given a detailed explanation of how dry needling works, what sensations to expect, and how it fits into your overall physiotherapy plan. This is your chance to ask questions or share any concerns you might have.
3. Consent and Preparation
   Once you’re comfortable and give your consent, the therapist will clean the treatment area using antiseptic wipes and prepare the needles—each one is single-use and sterile.

Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is recommended to allow easy access to the areas being treated.

During the Session: Step-by-Step Experience

During the Session: Step-by-Step Experience Your first dry needling session may last anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area and your individual response. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect: 

1. Needle Insertion The physiotherapist will gently insert a fine, filiform needle into the targeted muscle. Most patients report feeling a mild prick or pressure, but the sensation is usually less intense than a typical injection since the needle is much thinner and does not inject any fluid. 

2. Local Twitch Response You may experience an involuntary muscle twitch or brief spasm when the needle hits a trigger point. This “twitch response” is a good sign—it means the needle has successfully stimulated the tight muscle fibers, leading to a release of tension. 

3. Mild Aching or Heaviness Some clients describe a dull ache, tingling, or heaviness around the treated area. These sensations are normal and indicate that the muscle is responding to the needling. 

4. Needle Removal Once the desired response is achieved, the physiotherapist will carefully remove the needles and gently massage or stretch the area to enhance circulation and reduce discomfort. 

The entire process is typically painless to mildly uncomfortable, and most patients find it tolerable—even relaxing—after the initial few minutes.

After the Session: Recovery and Care

Following your first dry needling treatment, it’s common to feel soreness, tightness, or a sensation similar to post-exercise muscle fatigue for 24–48 hours. These effects are temporary and part of the natural healing response. Here’s how to manage recovery effectively:

1. Stay Hydrated
   Drink plenty of water to help flush out metabolic waste and support muscle recovery.
2. Gentle Movement
   Light stretching or low-intensity activities (like walking) can help keep the muscles loose and improve blood flow.
3. Avoid Strenuous Exercise
   Give your body time to adapt before returning to intense workouts, especially if large muscle groups were treated.
4. Apply Heat or Ice if Needed
   Mild heat can help relax the muscles, while ice can reduce soreness—use whichever feels more comfortable.
5. Follow-Up Sessions
   Depending on your condition, your physiotherapist may recommend multiple sessions to achieve lasting results. Dry needling works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including manual therapy, corrective exercises, and posture training.

Results: What You Can Expect

Many people notice immediate relief after their first dry needling session, including reduced pain, improved range of motion, and decreased muscle tightness. For chronic or complex cases, multiple sessions may be required to address deeper or long-standing issues. Benefits of dry needling include:

• Reduced muscle pain and stiffness
• Improved joint mobility and flexibility
• Faster recovery from injuries
• Better neuromuscular control
• Enhanced performance and posture

Over time, combining dry needling with physiotherapy exercises can help correct underlying imbalances and prevent the recurrence of muscle tension or pain.

Safety and Professional Training

When performed by a qualified physiotherapist, dry needling is a very safe procedure. Practitioners undergo specialized training and certification to ensure they understand anatomy, safety protocols, and sterile techniques. 

At E-Physioneeds Academy, we emphasize professional training through our Dry Needling Certification Courses, designed for physiotherapists who want to expand their clinical skills and deliver more effective pain management solutions. 

If you’re a patient, always make sure your physiotherapist is certified and experienced in dry needling techniques before undergoing treatment.

Final Thoughts

Your first dry needling session is the start of a journey toward pain-free movement and better muscular health. While it’s normal to feel a bit nervous initially, understanding what to expect can make the process much more comfortable.

Remember—dry needling isn’t a quick fix, but when combined with proper physiotherapy care, it’s a powerful tool for restoring function, relieving pain, and enhancing performance. 

If you’re ready to experience the benefits for yourself, book a session with a certified physiotherapist today—or, if you’re a practitioner, consider enrolling in a Dry Needling Course at E-Physioneeds Academy to take your practice to the next level.