What is dry needling from a Physio?

Dry needling is a safe and easy way to ease sore spots in muscles. A thin needle is inserted into the muscle and used to stimulate a pathway response to the brain to reduce an area of soreness. The theory of dry needling is quite complex, however it is known to positively influence the electrical and chemical responses of our nervous system.

Needling can be safely applied to most muscles of the body, including the deeper muscles, which are sometimes hard to stretch or don’t benefit from massage or foam rolling. Dry needling insertion is usually pain free but sometimes the local twitch response of the muscle may be sore or unexpected for a brief period of time.

Dry needling from a Physio is not acupuncture. Dry needling is a Western application based around muscle trigger points and myofascial tension, which uses acupuncture needles.

Ready to experience the benefits of dry needling in Adelaide? Book an appointment with one of our Physios today and start feeling better. Call us at 1300 189 289 or schedule your appointment online now.

dry needling in Adelaide

What are acupuncture or dry needles?

The same needles that are used for acupuncture are used for dry needling.
Dry needles are very thin, sterile, single use and with the use of a guide tube, are gently inserted into the skin in a controlled manner a few millimetres. Your dry needling Physio will then guide the needle to the depth required to treat your muscles or connective tissues.

What can dry needling be used to treat?

It can help with a number of different conditions. It can be used for:

  • headache symptoms
  • spine pain including back and neck pain
  • muscle strains
  • sports injuries
  • tendon-based problems

Depending on the severity or intensity of symptoms may depend on how many needles are used and for how long.

Why have dry needling?

Physio’s utilise dry needling to:

  1. aids in pain relief
  2. release muscle or connective tissue tension
  3. improve mobility and flexibility

What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?

People sometimes compare dry needling to acupuncture and vice versa. However, these are two separate treatment techniques.

Below is a video by David, one of our Physiotherapists talking about the difference between dry needling and acupuncture.

Dry needling is used by the majority of our Physio’s here at myPhysioSA and it can be done during a standard consultation.

Dry needling can also be combined with other treatment techniques (such as massage) in the session so that you have the best possible opportunity to achieve great results in a shorter period of time.

If you are someone who feels as though they would benefit from dry needling or would like some more information about the treatment technique then perhaps booking in to see one of our Physios would be best for further advice and management.

We are more than happy to help in any way we can.

Book your Dry Needling with myPhysioSA Today

1300 189 289Make a Booking