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What Is the Myofascial System?

The myofascial system consists of:

  • Myo = muscles
  • Fascia = connective tissue that surrounds and connects muscles, bones, and organs

Fascia is not just a passive structure. It is rich in nerve endings, and when it becomes tight, stuck, or irritated, it can cause pain. This type of pain is often referred to as myofascial pain.

What Are Myofascial Trigger Points?

Myofascial pain often originates from trigger points — small, localized knots or tight bands in a muscle. These knots are usually tender to the touch and can cause referred pain (pain in another area). They can develop from overuse, stress, poor posture, or injury.

Common symptoms of trigger points include:

  • Local or referred pain
  • Reduced muscle strength
  • Limited range of motion
  • Tingling or numbness

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is a treatment technique where the therapist inserts a thin needle directly into a trigger point. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, Dry Needling is grounded in modern medical science and focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the muscles.

How Does It Work?

The needle causes a local “twitch response” in the muscle — a brief contraction. This leads to:

  • Reduction of muscle tension
  • Improved blood flow
  • Decreased pain
  • Restoration of normal muscle function

Is Dry Needling Painful?

The treatment is generally well tolerated. You will barely feel the insertion of the needle. The twitch response can feel briefly uncomfortable, but many people experience immediate relief afterward. Sometimes the muscle may feel sore after the session — like it has had a small workout.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Dry Needling is often used for:

  • Chronic or recurring muscle pain
  • Sports injuries
  • Headaches and neck pain
  • Back pain
  • RSI / CANS (Repetitive Strain Injury / Complaints of Arm, Neck and Shoulder)

It is usually part of a broader myofascial therapy approach, which may include exercises, posture advice, and manual techniques.

Important to Know

Dry Needling should only perform by qualified therapists. It is not a standalone treatment, but a valuable addition to a well-rounded treatment plan.

Conclusion

Myofascial pain can be persistent, but it is very treatable when the root cause is properly addressed. Dry Needling is an effective technique for releasing trigger points and restoring muscle function. When combined with exercise therapy and a thorough analysis of the underlying cause, it can lead to lasting recovery and improved mobility.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Have a question?
Check our FAQ – you’ll quickly find answers to the most frequently asked questions.

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In principle, you can go to the physiotherapist for all types of pain in the movable parts of the body. Depending on whether the pain is in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, or in the harder parts of the body such as your spine or joints, it determines which therapist you should visit.

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If you have a complaint related to the musculoskeletal system that you believe a physiotherapist can help with, in most cases, you do not need a referral for physiotherapy. This applies regardless of whether the complaint concerns your muscles, joints, tendons, or ligaments.

Exceptions for a Physiotherapy Referral

Of course, there are exceptions where a referral for physiotherapy will required. This concerns chronic conditions that listed by the government. This list has created because chronic conditions often (partially) covered by the basic insurance.

When You’re Uncertain Whether You Need a Referral for Physiotherapy

If you are not sure whether you need a referral, the physiotherapist or our central office can always provide you with more information. Additionally, your health insurance policy will indicate whether a referral from your general practitioner or medical specialist is necessary for physiotherapy.

The cost of physiotherapy depends on how you are insured. If you are not insured for physiotherapy, you can view the rates in our pricing overview at the bottom of this page.

If you have additional insurance, it will always used first. If it fully used up or the coverage is insufficient, you will receive an invoice for your treatments.

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