Dry Needling
Dry Needling uses fine, sterile, single-use needles inserted into selected muscles or areas of muscular sensitivity. It may be used to help reduce muscular pain and tension, improve comfort with movement and support participation in exercise and rehabilitation.
Dry Needling is provided as part of an individualised Physiotherapy plan and is commonly combined with exercise-based rehabilitation, Strength & Conditioning, Manual Therapy and education.
When Dry Needling May Be Used
Dry Needling may be considered for sports and musculoskeletal presentations involving muscular pain, tension, sensitivity or reduced comfort with movement.
This can include:
- Neck, shoulder and back pain
- Muscle strains
- Sports-related muscular soreness
- Calf, hamstring, quadriceps or hip muscle tension
- Headaches associated with muscular tension
- Rehabilitation after injury or surgery
- Muscular pain or tightness affecting movement or exercise
The use of Dry Needling depends on your assessment findings, preferences, suitability and response to treatment.
What to Expect
Before treatment, the technique and expected sensations will be explained, and your consent will be obtained. During Dry Needling, you may feel a brief ache, cramp or muscular twitch. Some temporary soreness can occur afterwards.
Sterile, single-use needles are used, and the treatment is adjusted according to your comfort and response.
How Dry Needling Fits Into Rehabilitation
Dry Needling does not replace rehabilitation. It is used alongside exercise, progressive loading and education where appropriate, with the aim of making movement and rehabilitation more comfortable.