Dry Needling is a treatment technique used by physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals to relieve muscle pain and improve movement. It involves inserting thin, sterile solid needles (like acupuncture needles) into myofascial trigger points—tight knots in muscles that can cause pain and stiffness.
- Muscle pain (especially chronic or tight muscles)
- Sports injuries
- Tendonitis
- Back or neck pain
- Headaches (tension-type)
- Postural issues
- The needle is inserted directly into the trigger point.
- It may cause a twitch response — a quick contraction of the muscle, which is a good sign the muscle is releasing.
- No medication is injected (hence “dry” needling).
- The goal is to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing.
No, though the tools (needles) are similar:
| Dry Needling | Acupuncture |
|---|---|
| Based on Western medicine and muscle anatomy | Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Targets trigger points in muscles | Targets meridians and energy flow (Qi) |
| Often used by physiotherapists | Performed by licensed acupuncturists |
- You may feel a muscle twitch, a dull ache, or a spasm during treatment.
- Soreness after treatment is common and can last a day or two—similar to a deep tissue massage.
- Mild bleeding or bruising
- Temporary soreness
- Rare: infection or pneumothorax (if done improperly near lungs)
Our Physiotherapist Matthew West at Parramatta is fully qualified and has 15 Years experience of dry needling.