Acupuncture & Dry Needling in Preston

At 5 Star Clinic in Preston, we take a holistic approach to supporting pain management, restoring balance, and enhancing overall well-being through acupuncture and dry needling. Our practitioners are trained to provide targeted treatments that may help with a range of conditions, from back pain to migraines.

Why Choose Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that works by stimulating specific points on the body. Many people use it alongside other care to support relaxation, energy flow, and the body’s natural healing response. Whether you’re managing a long-term condition or simply want to support your overall health, acupuncture may have something to offer.

Personalised care, focused on you
Acupuncture and dry needling are tailored to your individual needs, with treatment designed to support relaxation, mobility and overall wellbeing.

Close-up of an acupuncturist carefully inserting needles for pain relief and relaxation.

Types of Acupuncture Offered at 5 Star Clinic

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture

- Rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, this technique involves placing fine, sterile needles at strategic points with the aim of balancing the body’s energy, or “Qi.” Learn More
- May help support: stress relief, sleep quality, pain management, and general balance. Often chosen by those interested in chronic pain support, stress reduction, or digestive wellness.

Western (Medical) Acupuncture

- Backed by modern scientific research into local, segmental, and central nervous system effects.
- May help support: natural pain-relief responses, circulation, and muscle relaxation. Often chosen by those with muscle tension, inflammation, or nerve-related discomfort.

Dry Needling

- A physiotherapy-led technique — distinct from acupuncture — that targets muscle trigger points to help relieve tension and restore function.
- May help support: muscle “knots,” sports injury recovery, back pain, and postural issues.

Conditions We Commonly Support

Tailored to your specific needs

Our treatments are tailored to each person’s needs. Some of the areas patients most often seek support for include:

+Neck & Back Pain

Supporting reduced tension and improved mobility.

○Joint Pain

Shoulder, knee & elbow support for joint function.

☰TMJ & Headaches

Targeting facial and jaw muscle tension.

♡Osteoarthritis & Sciatica

Part of a broader pain-management plan.

❄Stress & Anxiety

Calming treatments to support relaxation.

↼Postural Imbalance

Support for related muscular discomfort.

♡Women’s Health

Supporting hormonal balance & menstrual health.

✨Chronic Pain Management

Supporting relief and improved function for persistent pain.

🪜Dental-Related Jaw Pain

Targeted facial acupuncture.

Note: Acupuncture offers gentle, personalised support to promote relaxation, comfort and overall wellbeing.

The Science

How acupuncture works, point by point

Research suggests acupuncture may act through three mechanisms, each of which can contribute to symptom relief:

Local Effect

Needle insertion is associated with increased blood flow, reduced muscle stiffness, and support for healing in the target area.

Segmental Effect

Needling at specific points may influence nerve pathways, helping to dampen pain signals and support mobility.

Central Effect

Imaging studies have shown acupuncture’s association with pain pathways in the brain, and its role in triggering the release of the body’s own opioid-like substances (sometimes called acupuncture-induced analgesia).

Acupuncture is also thought to influence the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). Emerging research is exploring links between ANS regulation and conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, and arthritis — though this is an active area of study rather than settled science.

Your First Visit

What to expect

Personalised Consultation

We discuss your medical history, symptoms, and health goals to fully understand your needs.

II.

Diagnostic Assessment

Using traditional techniques such as pulse and tongue examination to understand your needs.

III.

Customised Treatment Plan

Built around your assessment to address your specific goals.

Have questions? Contact us to learn how acupuncture could fit into your health routine.

Real Results from Real Patients

“I came to 5 Star Clinic with chronic back pain, and after a few acupuncture sessions, I felt a remarkable improvement. The pain relief has been lasting, and the staff truly cares about my well-being.”

    
 
 
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   Andreana Black 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just completed my last treatment with Bilal. I cannot believe how my back has improved. The treatment I have received has been outstanding, I cannot recommend him & 5 Star Clinic highly enough.
Thank you so much xx
  
 
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   tomahwak thehawker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They helped me recover from a grade 1 LCL tear.I have other conditions which slowed down recovery but they were very patient and accommodating and didn't rush my rehab or give me exercises I wasn't ready for.

Overall  I was very happy with how  my treatment went👍
  
 
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   Josh Richardson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jahanzaib is very good, got me moving within the week!
  
 
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   suren kf 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. "I had a wonderful experience with my physiotherapist(NIRU). From the first session, she made me feel at ease and really understood my needs. Her expertise and personalized approach were key in my recovery from my injury. I appreciated how she took the time to explain each exercise and its benefits, which made me feel more confident in my healing journey. I highly recommend her services to anyone looking for professional and caring physiotherapy!"
  
 
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   Shruthi V 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience with Mr Jahanzaib Rasool. I came in with poor posture and chronic discomfort, and in a single session with clear guidance, my posture was corrected and I am relieved from the pain. His knowledge, patience, and hands-on approach made all the difference. I feel more aligned, energetic, and pain-free. Highly recommended for anyone struggling with posture issues or general body issues!
  
 
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   stacey lewis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have to admit I was sceptical whether anything would help with my neck pain but a few sessions in and I truly feel the benefit and feel so much better. Not just the physical care that is taken but a full holistic approach and so friendly too. Thank you
  
 
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   Afsana Ahmed 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thankyou so much
I have been visiting this clinic for many yrs as a regular check in for my body and always am pleased with results
Subashna has been amazing therapist always

Thankyou
A Ahmed
  
 
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   JEEVAN REDDY MODDHU 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have reached out to Mr. Jahanzaib from 5 star clinic with my terrible lower back pain. I have been facing that for weeks and he helped me with to reduce my lower back pain in just 3-4 sessions. I highly recommend these guys to anyone who is facing similar kind of issues.
  
 
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   Gail Evans 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The 5 Star Clinc is the place to go for physiotherapy. Maryam is an excellent and knowledgeable practitioner who explores all options to improve pain. She is a wonderful lady and I can definitely recommend her skills.

Book Your Acupuncture Session Today

Don’t let pain or discomfort hold you back. Experience the benefits of acupuncture at 5 Star Clinic. Click below to book an appointment and start your journey toward healing and balance.

Book now

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the oldest systems of medicine, built on its own diagnostic framework. It holds that health reflects a harmonious balance and flow of vital energy, or “Qi” — the energy of the body, its meridians, food, and the wider environment.

The Diagnostic Process in TCM

Looking — observing the body, movement, and mannerisms, often including a tongue examination.

Listening — practitioners consider vocal tone, traditionally grouped into five types: shout, laugh, sing, weep, groan.

Touching — checking for areas that are tender, hot or cold, swollen, sweaty, or discoloured, often alongside a pulse examination.

Asking — questions about sleep, appetite, pain characteristics, and emotional state, to build a fuller picture.

Congenital & Acquired Qi

TCM describes two basic types of Qi: Congenital Qi, present from birth, and Acquired Qi, shaped by lifestyle — diet, physical activity, air quality, and emotional balance.

Qi is said to flow through 12 main meridians in the body, accessible through around 350 acupuncture points.

Yin & Yang

Yin and Yang describe relative, opposite qualities of Qi. Nothing is purely one or the other — everything Yin contains a trace of Yang, and vice versa.

Yin

Associated with qualities that are material, solid, heavy, soft, descending, cold, moist, and passive.

Yang

Associated with qualities that are immaterial, light, active, ascending, warm, dry, and dynamic.

TCM practitioners aim to identify and correct imbalances between these qualities as part of a personalised treatment approach.

Comman Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture painful?

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. You may feel a brief prick, mild pressure, tingling, or warmth when the very fine needles are inserted. Any discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived, and your practitioner can adjust the treatment if you feel uncomfortable.

What's the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and works with the body’s broader energy system (Qi). Dry needling is a physiotherapy-based technique focused specifically on releasing tight muscle “trigger points.” Both use fine needles, but the theory and approach differ.

Is acupuncture safe?

When carried out by a trained, registered practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is generally considered safe. Minor bruising or tenderness at the needle site is the most common side effect. Always tell your practitioner about any medical conditions, medications, or pregnancy before treatment.

Do I need a GP referral?

No, you do not need a GP referral. Western acupuncture is a technique used by trained physiotherapists and can be provided as part of your physiotherapy treatment.

What should I wear or do to prepare?

Loose, comfortable clothing is best so the practitioner can access the treatment area. Eating a light meal beforehand and avoiding alcohol on the day of treatment is recommended.

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Ready When You Are

Ready to feel the difference?

Take the first step toward supporting your health and easing your discomfort. Book a consultation with our Preston-based acupuncture and dry needling practitioners today.

Book Your Session Now
Ask a Question First

Prefer to ask a question first? Get in touch with our team — we’re happy to talk through whether acupuncture or dry needling is the right fit for you.