Call us now: 020 7435 4910 · Appointments within 24 to 48 hours
A physiotherapist treating a patient in clinic
4.8 ★★★★★ · 140 Google reviews

Acupuncture & dry needling in London

Western medical acupuncture for muscle tension and persistent pain, delivered by AACP-trained physiotherapists.

  • Initial assessment £85
  • Hampstead & Highgate
  • No GP referral needed
  • Appointments in 24 to 48 hours

Acupuncture as physiotherapists use it

We practise Western medical acupuncture, sometimes called dry needling: very fine needles placed into tight muscle and trigger points to reduce tension and pain. It is based on how muscles and nerves respond to needling, and it is delivered by physiotherapists with specific AACP training.

Needling is almost never a standalone treatment here. It works best as part of a physiotherapy plan, settling tension so exercises and hands-on treatment can do their work.

What to expect

How a needling session works

Always assessed first, always explained, and always your choice.

01Assessment firstNeedling is only offered where it is likely to help, after a physiotherapy assessment of the actual problem.
02The needlingFine needles into the target muscles, usually for a few minutes. Most people feel a dull ache rather than pain.
03Built into the planNeedling settles the tension; exercise and treatment deal with why it was there. The two run together.
Who you will see

AACP-trained physiotherapists

Acupuncture here is delivered only by chartered physiotherapists with Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists training, using sterile single-use needles, within a full physiotherapy assessment and plan.

Meet the team →

Award-winning
  • Physiotherapy Clinic of the Year2025/26
Transparent pricing

What it costs

Published up front, with no charge for a treatment plan you have not agreed to.

Initial assessment (30 minutes)£85
Follow-up session (30 minutes)£85

Needling is included within a standard appointment, not charged as an extra. See all prices →

Private health insurance

We invoice these insurers directly

Check your cover →
Patient reviews

What our patients say

4.8 ★★★★★
140 Google reviews · SMARTPHYSIO Hampstead
Read all reviews
JTJonathan ThorntonJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Shokola was great with my 12 year old daughter. She got straight to the issue and made good and practical suggestions for treatment.”

Google review →
DSDeborah SimmonsJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Harsha has been kind, attentive and has helped me hugely with my hip and Achilles injuries. She’s a brilliant and very knowledgeable physiotherapist and I recommend her highly.”

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NHNicky HorneJune 2026
★★★★★

“I have seen several different therapists at Sammy Margo’s over many years. Every one has been excellent. When I was recovering from a hip replacement the physio I received helped me recover really quickly. Highly recommended.”

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NSNigel SpackmanMay 2026
★★★★★

“I had a full hip replacement following a cycle accident, and have daily physio visits on weekdays for three weeks. I am already able to walk short distances without a stick or crutch, and this is entirely due to the work they have done with me.”

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ANAdrian NaftalinApril 2026
★★★★★

“Thanks to Olga I have made great strides in my recovery from the after-effects of sepsis. My strength, balance and mobility have improved enormously under her excellent physiotherapy. I would recommend her wholeheartedly.”

Google review →
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Does it hurt?
Most people feel the needles far less than they expect: a small prick, then often a dull, spreading ache in the muscle that fades quickly. You can stop at any point.
Is it safe?
In trained hands, yes. Our practitioners are AACP-trained physiotherapists using sterile, single-use needles, and we screen for the small number of situations where needling is not appropriate.
Acupuncture or dry needling, what is the difference?
In our clinic, little in practice. Both use the same fine needles; we target muscles and trigger points based on Western anatomy rather than traditional meridians.
How will I feel afterwards?
Often looser and sometimes a little heavy or achy for a day, like after a firm massage. Drink water and keep gently moving.
Can I have it in my first appointment?
Often, yes, if assessment suggests it will help and you are comfortable with it. There is never pressure to include it.

Let's get you moving again

Tell us about a home visit and we will call you back the same working day, or book a clinic appointment online.