Dry Needling
Targeted Relief for Muscle and Nerve Pain
Dry needling is a physiotherapy technique that uses fine, solid needles to release tight muscle bands (trigger points) and help relieve pain. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is grounded in modern medical science and focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system.
- Reduce pain signals by influencing chemical activity around the treated area.
- Improve muscle healing by stimulating local tissue repair.
- Change how the brain processes pain — with effects observed on functional MRI (fMRI).
- Muscle tightness and knots
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
- Myofascial pain syndromes
- Chronic or acute muscle pain
- Muscle tightness and knots
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
- Myofascial pain syndromes
- Chronic or acute muscle pain
Dry Needling FAQs
Dry needling uses very fine, sterile needles inserted into tight or overactive muscles to reduce pain, release trigger points and improve movement. It is a physiotherapy technique based on modern musculoskeletal science.
While they use similar needles, dry needling targets specific muscles and trigger points to improve neuromuscular function. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine meridians. Both can be beneficial but serve different purposes.
It is commonly used for persistent muscle tightness, tendinopathy, neck or back pain, sports injuries, headaches, TMJ pain, and movement restrictions that haven’t responded fully to other techniques.
Most people feel a brief muscle twitch or dull ache, which is a normal response. The sensation is usually short-lived, and treatment is always adapted to your comfort level.
Yes — it is safe when performed by trained physiotherapists using sterile, single-use needles. Your physiotherapist will discuss any precautions relevant to your condition or medical history.
Yes. Dry needling is most effective when combined with movement retraining, strengthening and manual therapy to address the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to call and chat with our Sunbury Physiotherapy team – we’re here to help.