Dry Needling

Dry needling is a technique in which a thin, sterile, single-use needle is inserted into a muscle or nearby tissue - often at a tight, tender band known as a trigger point - to help ease muscle tension and pain. “Dry” simply means nothing is injected. At Goji Physio in Lentor, Singapore, dry needling is offered by Cheryl Long as one tool within a broader treatment plan, alongside exercise, movement retraining, and education - not as a standalone cure.

What is dry needling used for?

Physiotherapists may use dry needling to help with:

• Muscle tightness, spasm, and trigger-point-related pain
• Neck, shoulder, and lower back tension
• Tension-type headaches associated with neck and shoulder muscles
• Muscle-related symptoms in the upper or lower body accompanying sports and overuse injuries

Dry needling is chosen when your assessment suggests muscle tension or trigger points are contributing to your symptoms. It works best as part of an active plan rather than on its own.

How does it differ from acupuncture?

Although both use similar thin needles, dry needling is based on anatomy and musculoskeletal assessment - targeting specific muscles and trigger points identified during your examination. Traditional acupuncture is rooted in a different framework based on meridians and energy flow. The needles look alike, but the reasoning behind where and why they are placed is different.

What does a session at Goji involve?

Dry needling is only available in sessions with Cheryl Long. She will first assess your symptoms and movement to decide whether dry needling is appropriate for you. She will also review your medical history to ensure dry needling is suitable and safe. If it is appropriate, she will explain the process and gain your consent. During treatment:

• A thin, sterile needle is inserted into the target muscle or trigger point
• You may feel a brief ache, a twitch response, or a dull heaviness - this is normal
• Needles may be gently manipulated, depending on the technique
• Treatment is followed with movement, stretching, or exercise to build on the effect

Dry needling is almost always combined with the rest of your rehabilitation plan, so the benefit is carried into how you move and load the area.

Is dry needling safe?

When performed by a trained physiotherapist using sterile, single-use needles, dry needling is generally considered safe. Common short-term effects include mild soreness, minor bruising, or temporary fatigue. Your physiotherapist will screen for any reasons it may not be suitable for you and will discuss what to expect.

Frequently asked questions

Who offers dry needling at Goji?

Dry needling is provided by Cheryl Long, Goji’s Clinical Director and an AHPC-registered physiotherapist. It is only available in sessions with her, so choose Cheryl as your physiotherapist when you book, or mention it when you message us on WhatsApp.

Does dry needling hurt?

Most people feel only a small prick as the needle enters, sometimes followed by a brief muscle ache or twitch. Discomfort is usually short-lived, and your physiotherapist will check in with you throughout.

How will I feel afterwards?

Some people feel immediate relief or notice improved muscle length or activation, while others notice mild soreness for a day or so, similar to after exercise. Gentle movement and staying hydrated can help.

How many sessions will I need?

Dry needling is not a fixed course - it is used when clinically appropriate as part of your wider plan. Your physiotherapist will discuss whether and how often it fits into your rehabilitation.

Is it suitable for everyone?

Not always. Certain conditions, medications, or circumstances mean dry needling may not be recommended. Your physiotherapist will screen for these and suggest alternatives if needed.

Will dry needling fix my problem on its own?

Dry needling can help ease muscle tension and pain, but it works best alongside exercise and movement retraining that address why the tension developed. It is one part of the plan, not a substitute for the rest of it.