Dry Needling

Dry needling can be utilised as a treatment modality to help reduce muscle pain, improve movement, and restore function, particularly when symptoms are related to muscle tightness, trigger points, or ongoing muscle tension. Dry needling involves the use of fine, sterile needles inserted into specific muscles and trigger points to release tension, improve blood flow and reduce pain.

Dry needling is similar to traditional acupuncture with some key differences. It is based on Western anatomical and scientific principles and focuses on treating muscles and connective tissues. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance energy flow within the body. Both use fine needles, but they differ in their treatment philosophy and clinical application.

Common conditions that may respond well to dry needling include:

• Muscle tightness and trigger points which can cause local or referred pain
• Chronic muscle pain, including neck, back and shoulder discomfort
• Sports and overuse injuries, where muscle overload contributed to symptoms

By addressing muscle dysfunction and movement restrictions, dry needling helps reduce pain and improve mobility in order to support a safe return to sport, work and daily activities.

If you are experiencing ongoing muscle pain or tightness, book an appointment with the team here at Emu Physio to find out if dry needling is right for you.

You can make an appointment for only dry needling or as part of your physiotherapy treatment, just let our team know what you are looking for!