Dry needling is a treatment in which a trained healthcare practitioner inserts a very thin, sterile needle into carefully selected areas of muscle or other soft tissue. It is called “dry” needling because nothing is injected into the body.
The goal is not simply to place a needle where it hurts. The practitioner first assesses your symptoms, movement and function, then decides whether dry needling may be useful as one part of your treatment plan.
At The LiveWell Centre in Kingston, our physiotherapists Jennifer Kates and DK use dry needling when it is clinically appropriate as part of an individualized treatment plan. We believe treatment should help you move toward better function—not just provide a temporary change in symptoms. Dry needling is often combined with education, movement, exercise and other hands-on care.
How does dry needling work?
Dry needling uses fine, single-use needles to stimulate specific areas that may be contributing to pain, muscle tension or restricted movement. Depending on the assessment and treatment approach, the needle may be directed toward a sensitive point within a muscle or another relevant soft-tissue structure.
The exact way dry needling affects pain is still being studied. It may influence local tissue sensitivity and the way the nervous system processes pain. Some people notice less discomfort or easier movement after treatment, while others experience little change. The response varies from person to person and from one condition to another.
Research suggests that dry needling may provide short-term improvement in pain or function for some musculoskeletal conditions. The evidence is not equally strong for every problem, and longer-term benefits are less certain. This is one reason we view dry needling as a possible tool within a complete rehabilitation plan rather than a stand-alone cure.
Our physiotherapists at the LiveWell Centre use dry needling as an adjunct therapy when appropriate, and find it extremely beneficial for muscle and tendon related injuries and pain. Common areas where dry needling g is used include the trapezius muscles (for neck and shoulder pain), calf muscles for lower leg injuries, the hamstrings (running injuries) and the neck for headaches. Both Jenn and DK and two of the most experienced physiotherapists in Kingston, and are constantly investing in their professional development. That coupled with their extensive hands on experience make them the experts to see in Kingston.
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture both use thin, solid needles, but they are generally distinguished by their clinical reasoning and treatment goals.
Dry needling is commonly used in musculoskeletal care. The practitioner selects the treatment area after assessing pain, movement, muscle function and the tissues that may be involved.
Acupuncture may use different assessment frameworks and point-selection systems, depending on the practitioner and style of care.
In Ontario, dry needling is regulated as a form of acupuncture and may be performed only by qualified healthcare professionals who have the required training and authority.
What problems may dry needling be used for?
A practitioner may consider dry needling when muscle or soft-tissue sensitivity appears to be contributing to pain or limited movement.
Examples can include:
Neck or shoulder discomfort Back pain
Hip or gluteal pain
Tight or painful calf muscles Some tendon-related problems
Muscle soreness or restricted movement associated with sport and activity
This list does not mean that dry needling is suitable—or effective—for every person with these symptoms. Similar pain can have many different causes. A proper assessment should come before treatment.
What happens during a dry-needling appointment?
Your first visit begins with a conversation and physical assessment. Your physiotherapist will ask about your health history, symptoms, goals, medications and any concerns you have about needles. They will explain the proposed treatment, discuss expected benefits and risks, and ask for your consent.
If you decide to proceed, the skin is cleaned and a sterile, single-use needle is inserted into the selected area. The needle may remain still briefly or may be gently moved, depending on the technique being used. The number of needles and the length of treatment vary according to the area and your individual plan.
Treatment can be stopped at any time. If you are nervous about needles, tell your practitioner before starting so that you can discuss alternatives.
Does dry needling hurt?
People describe the sensation differently. You may barely feel the needle enter the skin. When a sensitive area is reached, you might notice a brief twitch, cramp, ache or pressure.
Temporary muscle soreness after treatment is common and can feel similar to the discomfort after a workout. Mild bruising or a small amount of bleeding can also occur. Your practitioner will explain what to expect and what to do after your appointment.
Is dry needling safe?
Dry needling is generally considered a low-risk procedure when it is performed by a properly trained healthcare professional using appropriate hygiene and anatomical precautions.
However, it is not risk-free.
Possible side effects include temporary soreness, bruising, minor bleeding, fatigue, dizziness or fainting. Infection and injury to nearby structures are uncommon but possible. A rare yet serious complication is pneumothorax, or a collapsed lung, when needling is performed near the chest.
Seek urgent medical care if you develop unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain or significant difficulty breathing following needling near the chest or upper back.
Who may not be a good candidate for dry needling?
Dry needling may need to be avoided or modified for some people. Before treatment, tell your practitioner if you:
Take blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder Are pregnant or may be pregnant
Have an infection, wound or skin condition near the proposed treatment area Have a weakened immune system or certain medical conditions
Have had surgery or have an implanted medical device in the area Have a strong fear of needles or a history of fainting with needles
This is not a complete list. Your practitioner will use your health history and assessment to determine whether dry needling is appropriate for you.
How many dry-needling treatments will I need?
There is no standard number. Some people notice a change after one appointment; others may need several sessions, and some may not respond. The right plan depends on the condition, how long it has been present, your overall health and your functional goals.
Your progress should be reassessed rather than continuing treatment automatically. If dry needling is not helping, your plan should be adjusted.
Why is dry needling often combined with exercise?
Dry needling may help create a window in which an area feels less sensitive or movement feels easier. Exercise and movement-based rehabilitation can then help you build strength, control, mobility and confidence for the activities that matter to you.
For a student who has pain after long hours at a desk, a runner with a sensitive calf, or an active adult returning to the gym, the long-term goal is usually better function and greater capacity—not dependence on repeated passive treatment.
Who provides dry needling at The LiveWell Centre?
Jennifer Kates and DK (Dakshan Krishnapalan) are the physiotherapists at The LiveWell Centre in Kingston, Ontario. Both use dry needling as one of the treatment options available in the care of their patients.
Dry needling is not automatically included in every physiotherapy visit. Jennifer or DK will first assess your symptoms, movement, health history and goals. If dry needling may be helpful, they will explain why they are recommending it, review the potential benefits and risks, answer your questions and obtain your consent before proceeding.
Is dry needling right for you?
The best way to find out is through an individual assessment. At The LiveWell Centre, Jennifer and DK consider your symptoms, health history, movement, goals and treatment preferences before recommending care. If dry needling is not a good fit, they can discuss other physiotherapy options with you.
To ask about dry needling in Kingston, Ontario, contact The LiveWell Centre or book an assessment with our team.
Email us at: reception@livewellcentre.com
Frequently asked questions about dry needling
Are the needles reused?
No. A new sterile, single-use needle is used and disposed of immediately after treatment.
Is medication injected during dry needling?
No. Dry needling does not inject medication or another substance.
Can I exercise after dry needling?
That depends on the area treated, your response and your rehabilitation plan. Light movement is often comfortable, but ask your practitioner about strenuous exercise or sport on the day of treatment.
Do I need a referral for dry needling in Ontario?
In most cases, you can book an assessment directly. However, some extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement, so check your individual policy.
Is dry needling covered by insurance?
Coverage usually depends on the regulated healthcare service under which it is provided and the terms of your benefits plan. Contact your insurer if you are unsure.