Dry needling

What it is

Dry needling uses very fine needles, much thinner than the ones used for injections, inserted into tight bands of muscle called trigger points. "Dry" means nothing is injected. Most people feel a brief ache or a small twitch in the muscle, then the area eases.

How Rafael uses it

Dry needling is part of a remedial treatment rather than a separate session. Rafael uses it on knots that keep coming back or that massage alone can't reach, often in the upper traps, shoulders, lower back and glutes, then follows with hands-on work.

• Single-use sterile needles, disposed of after each client
• Always discussed with you first; you can say no at any time
• Combined with deep tissue and trigger point massage in the same session

Price

Dry needling is included in your treatment at no extra cost. Just book a remedial session; Rafael will suggest it where it will help, or you can ask for it.

When it isn't suitable

Tell Rafael if you are pregnant, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, a needle phobia, diabetes or a weakened immune system, or have had recent surgery near the area. He'll treat with massage only where needling isn't a good idea.