Dry needling is one of those treatments that can sound a bit strange at first, tiny needles going into tight muscles but once you’ve tried it, you understand why it’s used.
At Sports & Spines Physiotherapy in Brookvale, we use dry needling as part of a broader plan to ease pain, decrease muscle tension, restore movement, and help you recover faster. It’s not the only tool in the box but for the right issue, it can make a real difference.
So, What Is Dry Needling Anyway?
Dry needling involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into tight muscle bands known as trigger points. These are often the source of persistent pain or stiffness, sometimes you feel them as a dull ache, sometimes as sharp or referred pain that seems to travel.
While it may look like acupuncture, dry needling is based on Western medical principles. We’re not working along meridians or energy lines; instead, we’re targeting actual physical dysfunction in the muscle and nervous system.
What Happens Inside the Muscle?
When the needle hits a trigger point, the muscle often gives a small twitch. This isn’t random, it’s your body releasing tension. That twitch can break the cycle of tightness and irritation, letting blood flow back in, calming overactive nerves, and helping the muscle ‘reset’.
Recent research also points to some deeper effects. Needling may reduce local inflammation and even help recalibrate how your brain processes pain signals. For chronic issues, that can be a game-changer.
It’s not magic, but it is surprisingly effective when used in the right context.
What It Might Help With
Dry needling can be helpful for:
- Ongoing neck or back pain
- Shoulder, groin or hip tension.
- Muscle spasm/tightness
- Headaches (especially tension-type or cervicogenic)
- Sports injuries like runner’s knee, shin splints, golfers elbow and tennis elbow.
- General postural tightness or repetitive strain injuries
Some people feel looser straight away. Others notice the changes after a few sessions. Either way, it tends to work best when paired with hands-on treatment, movement retraining, and specific exercises.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
You’ll lie in a relaxed position, fully clothed except for the area being treated. The skin is cleaned with a sterile wipe. The needle is tapped into the skin and guided gently into the muscle. Sometimes you won’t feel much at all. Other times, there’s a slight twitch or ache, which usually fades within seconds. After a few minutes the needle is gently twisted to restimulate the area.
Afterwards, you might feel a bit sore - like you’ve done a workout. That’s normal and usually settles within a day or two. We’ll give you tips to manage any after-effects and check in on your progress.
And of course, we use single-use sterile needles and follow all safety and hygiene standards.
Is Dry Needling Right for You?
It’s a good fit for lots of people but not everyone. Some folks just don’t like needles. That’s okay. And in certain cases, like during early pregnancy or if you’re on blood thinners, we may suggest other options.
But if you’ve tried massage, stretching, or exercises and your muscle tightness still comes back, dry needling could be the missing piece.
Our Approach at Sports & Spines
We don’t rely on dry needling alone. It’s just one part of how we treat muscle and joint issues. We combine it with hands-on physio, active rehab and movement coaching to help you move better, not just feel better for a day or two.
Every plan is tailored. No cookie-cutter protocols here.
Common Questions
Does it hurt?
Most people say no, or not really. You might feel a twitch or dull thump when the needle hits the trigger point. But it’s quick, and often oddly satisfying.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the issue. Some people feel better after just one or two sessions. Others need a few more. We reassess as we go.
Is it the same as acupuncture?
No. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine. Dry needling uses similar tools but a completely different clinical framework.
Learn more about our physio services from your trusted Northern Beaches physiotherapist
Book Your Dry Needling Session in Brookvale
We’re located on the Northern Beaches, with easy parking and flexible appointments. If you’re wondering whether dry needling might help with your pain or tightness, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to talk it through, no pressure, just clear advice.
Book online, call, or come in for a chat.
Sports and Spines Physiotherapy Brookvale
Unit 8 Winbourne Estate
9 - 13 Winbourne Rd
Brookvale NSW 2100
