Zen Shiatsu Massage & Dry Needling
Zen Shiatsu & Dry Needling
Zen Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese therapy that restores balance and harmony in the body by working along energy pathways (meridians) to regulate Qi, blood flow, lymphatic function, and organ health. Using hands, thumbs, and palms, it combines gentle pressure with stretching, joint rotations, structural alignment, and soft tissue release, often enhanced with cupping, moxibustion, or Gua Sha for deeper therapeutic effect.
Dry Needling complements Shiatsu by targeting muscle trigger points, relieving tension, improving circulation, and restoring mobility. Together, these therapies address both structural and energetic layers of the body—realigning the skeleton and muscles while simultaneously restoring energy flow, organ function, and internal balance.
Unlike physiotherapy or chiropractic care, which primarily focus on muscles and joints, Zen Shiatsu and Dry Needling offer a truly integrative approach. They promote structural realignment, improved posture, movement efficiency, circulation, lymphatic drainage, and energetic harmony, supporting deep, long-lasting transformation for health, vitality, and overall wellbeing.
Common Conditions Treated with Zen Shiatsu & Dry Needling
Musculoskeletal Issues:
Chronic muscle tension, stiffness, and fatigue
Back, neck, and shoulder pain
Joint dysfunction and limited mobility
Tendinitis and repetitive strain injuries
Postural imbalances and misalignments
Sports injuries and overuse syndromes
Nervous System & Stress-Related Conditions:
Stress, anxiety, and emotional tension
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Headaches and tension migraines
Nervous system dysregulation
Circulatory & Detoxification Support:
Poor blood circulation
Lymphatic congestion and swelling
Fatigue related to impaired circulation
Digestive & Internal Organ Function:
Digestive discomfort, bloating, or constipation
Low energy due to organ imbalances
Support for seasonal or lifestyle-related internal imbalances
Recovery & Rehabilitation:
Post-injury rehabilitation (muscles, joints, and soft tissue)
Support for chronic conditions where movement is limited
Enhanced recovery after exercise, sports, or surgery
Aesthetic & Functional Enhancements (Dry Needling Specific):
Cosmetic needling to improve skin texture, firmness, and elasticity
DNES (Dry Needling Electrical Stimulation) for accelerated muscle recovery and tension release
How These Modalities Help:
Restore structural alignment and improve posture
Release muscle tension and increase joint mobility
Improve blood and lymphatic flow, supporting detoxification and tissue health
Regulate Qi/Energy flow, balancing body, mind, and internal organ function
Reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and restorative sleep
Support injury recovery and enhance functional movement
Contraindications
While Zen Shiatsu and Dry Needling are safe for most clients, certain conditions require caution or may prevent treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any of the following:
General Contraindications:
Acute fractures, severe osteoporosis, or recent surgery in the treatment area
Severe or unstable cardiovascular conditions
Acute infections, fevers, or contagious illnesses
Open wounds, skin infections, or severe dermatological conditions in the area to be treated
Blood disorders or clotting issues
Pregnancy (some techniques may need modification or avoidance)
Dry Needling Specific Contraindications:
Bleeding disorders or use of blood-thinning medications
Needle phobia or severe anxiety around needles
Localized infections or inflammation at the needle site
Severe neuropathy or sensory deficits in the area
Uncontrolled epilepsy
Caution / Modified Approach:
Chronic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
Recent strokes or cardiac events
Severe joint instability or hypermobility
Pregnancy or postpartum recovery (requires modified treatment)
Acute flare-ups of chronic conditions
Professional Note:
All treatments are individualised, and practitioners perform a thorough assessment before treatment to ensure safety and suitability. Modifications can often be made to safely accommodate many conditions, supporting recovery and wellbeing even when standard techniques are contraindicated.