Dry Needling in Dublin
Targeted relief for tight, painful muscles at our physiotherapy clinic in Ranelagh, Dublin 6.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a physiotherapy technique that uses very fine, sterile needles to release trigger points, the tight, sensitive knots in a muscle that cause pain and restrict movement. Placing a needle into the trigger point helps the muscle relax, eases pain, and restores normal movement. It is not the same as acupuncture. Dry needling is based on anatomy and a physical assessment of your muscles, and at The Body Lab it is used as one part of a full treatment plan alongside manual therapy and exercise.
What can dry needling help with?
Neck pain and tension headaches
Lower back pain and muscle spasm
Shoulder pain
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
Hip and gluteal pain
Calf, hamstring and quad tightness
Sports injuries and overuse injuries
Dry Needling Specialist
What to expect at your appointment?
Your session starts with an assessment to find out what is causing your pain and whether dry needling is right for you. If it is, the needles are placed into the affected muscles for a short time. You may feel a brief twitch or a dull ache, which is a normal response. Some muscle soreness for 24 to 48 hours afterwards is common, similar to how you feel after a hard workout. Dry needling is part of your physiotherapy session: €75 for 30 minutes or €150 for 60 minutes. Your first visit is a 45-minute assessment (€110).
Dry needling isn’t suitable for everyone. Let us know if you’re pregnant, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder or are nervous about needles, and we’ll find the right alternative.
Your Physiotherapist
Ghazi Al Qasem, Lead Physiotherapist BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Dry Needling Specialist
Patient reviews
I had a really positive experience at The Body Lab. I went in with quite severe back pain from a muscle spasm, and Ghazi was patient and attentive throughout. He carried out a thorough assessment and recommended helpful exercises. He was professional, respectful, and took the time to listen to my concerns. I’d definitely recommend this clinic!!!
— Alessia Priore
I came here with knee pain after being recommended by a friend. Great location, and Ghazi was such a professional, being able to identify the problem straight away. I already booked more sessions before leaving the building.
- Oscar ByrneI had sudden severe lower back pain from a tough lower body session in the gym and was struggling to walk for two days. I rang the clinic around 5pm and was seen in the next half an hour. The clinic is lovely and Ghazi is very kind and professional. The next day my back was back to normal, no pain when walking, I was so grateful and would definitely recommend!
— Niamh RyanDry needling FAQs
Related: Sports physiotherapy · Neck pain · Lower back pain · Prices
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Most people feel very little as the needle goes in. You may feel a quick twitch or a deep ache in the muscle, which passes within seconds.
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It depends on the problem. Many people notice a change after one or two sessions, while long-standing issues usually need a short course alongside exercises.
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Yes, when carried out by a trained physiotherapist using sterile, single-use needles. Minor bruising or soreness can happen and settles quickly. We will check your medical history first to make sure it is suitable for you.
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No. They use similar needles, but dry needling targets specific muscle trigger points identified in a physical assessment.
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Many health insurance plans cover physiotherapy, including Laya Healthcare, VHI and Level Health. We’ll give you a receipt for your claim. Check your policy for the amount you get back.