Medical Acupuncture
Medical acupuncture is available at The Massage Lab as a 15-minute add-on to your massage session (pre-booked) or as an ad-hoc extra (a small supplement applies).
We never use acupuncture without your prior consent, and it is always fully explained before treatment begins.
What is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical acupuncture is also known as Western Acupuncture or Dry Needling and is based on modern anatomy and physiology. Unlike Traditional Chinese acupuncture, its scope of practice is limited to musculo-skeletal complaints or injury.
In Western acupuncture uses fine, sterile needles are inserted into specific points in muscle or fascia to:
- Relieve pain and reduce muscle tension
- Deactivate trigger points and “knots”
- Improve local circulation and healing
- Support recovery from injury or overuse
Studies suggest that the therapeutic effects of acupuncture are the result of 2 main mechanisms:
- When a needle targets a painful or taut muscle, it may cause a brief and involuntary “twitch” response. This reflex helps reset the muscle, reduces hypertonicity, and improves blood flow, allowing waste products to be cleared more effectively.
- Carefully targeted needle placement stimulates nerves in the skin and muscle, triggering the release of natural painkillers such as endorphins and serotonin in the brain and spinal cord. This changes how pain signals are processed and can create lasting improvements in comfort and function.
A growing body of evidence supports the use of medical acupuncture in musculoskeletal care, with proven benefits for:
- Chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain (neck, shoulder, back, knee, and hip pain)
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points
- Osteoarthritis
- Post-operative pain management
We never use acupuncture without your prior consent, and it is always fully explained before treatment begins.
Book your Medical Acupuncture add-on in Islington
Biliana
Biliana is a Massage Therapist and Osteopath. She combines deep tissue, myofascial, and stretching techniques with a strong educational approach, helping clients not only relieve pain but also understand their bodies and take back control of their wellbeing.
Raymond
Raymond is a Massage Therapist with decades of experience offering sports & remedial massage, pregnancy massage, medical acupuncture, and trigger point therapy. He combines deep tissue techniques with a calm, restorative approach, aiming to treat both body and mind so clients leave feeling understood, balanced, and supported in their recovery.
What our Clients Say
Posted on Google CTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic massage , will definitely return, highly recommended !Posted on Google Connie GarradTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best pregnancy massage with Elisa - has been just what I’ve needed in the last few weeks of my pregnancy to target sciatica and back pain. Thank you so so much.Posted on Google Sally GTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Biliana is a brilliant therapist. She is very thorough, careful, really listens gives a realistic assessment and self help suggestions. Her massage technique demonstrates a breadth of skill and knowledge and has helped me significantly. I highly recommend the Massage Lab, comfortable and spotless facilities.Posted on Google Brandon McGrathTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been seeing Biliana for many years now. She’s absolutely incredible at what she does. I’m always recommending her to my friends and clients. Wouldn’t go anywhere else. 10/10!!Posted on Google Bill HeathTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a post hill-walking-trip massage from Lukasz. Excellent. Sorted out my rock hard calves and quadsPosted on Google Michelle ArtissTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ive been using Massage Lab for sometime now. I have had sports massage therapy from most of the therapists now as I have shift work and my times change. I have found all the therapists to have their own individual style but everyone has always been so professional, skilled and effective, especially working on problem areas, easing tension for sleep and keeping general muscle health and maintenance. My latest massage was with new addition Fruzsi and it was an excellent massage. Usually I know if I have had a good massage if I float out and she got rid of my excessive tiredness and muscle aches delivering on more than I asked for with great competence and attention to detail. I definitely recommend and have every confidence in all the therapists and they are all really lovely.Posted on Google Caitlin RoseTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elisa is wonderful. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my prenatal massages with her. She balances my needs very well, leaving me feeling relaxed but stronger after each session. Highly recommend!Posted on Google Isabella VgdTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Biliana is an absolute magician! I did a 90min pregnancy massage with her over the weekend and this was one of the best experiences ever. She is extremely knowledgeable, kind, welcoming, caring and talented. I am planning on returning soon!Posted on Google Cam GendronTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a great session with Elisa. She is both gentle and really strong, helping me relief a long-lasting shoulder injury with expertise and precision. Highly recommend! :)Posted on Google susan sentlerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Elisa is absolutely excellent.