Edition 7
Shop 3, 7 Skyline Place, Frenchs Forest 9599 6847

Welcome to Edition 7 of our Newsletter.

In this edition, we’re excited to welcome back our massage therapist Fillip, introduce our newest service Dry Needling with Aden, and share an informative article exploring how dry needling can support recovery, reduce muscle tension and complement your chiropractic and Physiotherapy care.

Clinic Spotlight

With dry needling now available at our clinic, we thought it would be helpful to explain what it is, how it works, and who it may be suitable for.

If you’ve been dealing with ongoing muscle pain, stiffness, or an injury that just doesn’t seem to be settling, dry needling may be something your practitioner recommends as part of your treatment plan.

So, what is dry needling?

Dry needling uses a very thin, solid needle that is gently inserted into a specific area of muscle or connective tissue.

Unlike an injection, no medication or fluid is injected — the needle itself is used to stimulate the tissue.

Dry needling commonly targets areas of tight or overactive muscle, often referred to as trigger points or “knots.” These areas can contribute to local pain, pain felt elsewhere in the body, and restricted movement.

Is it the same as acupuncture?

Although similar needles are used, dry needling and acupuncture are different.

Dry needling is based on Western anatomy and pain science, rather than the traditional Chinese medicine principles used in acupuncture.

How does it work?

When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, several responses can occur:

🟢 The muscle can relax
Needling can help disrupt an area of tight, overactive muscle and encourage it to release.

🟢 Pain sensitivity can decrease
Needling stimulates nerve fibres that can activate the body's own natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

🟢 Local sensitivity may settle
Dry needling may help reduce some of the chemical factors associated with pain and sensitivity around a trigger point.

🟢 Blood flow can improve
Increased circulation to the area can support tissue recovery.

You may also experience a small local twitch response when the muscle is needled. This is a normal reaction and isn't necessary for the treatment to be effective.

What can dry needling help with?

It can be particularly useful for people experiencing persistent muscle tightness or stubborn areas of pain that aren't settling.

For example, this may include ongoing Achilles or plantar fascia symptoms, or jaw pain that continues despite other treatment.

Is dry needling safe?

For most people, dry needling is a safe treatment when performed by a trained and qualified practitioner.

It is common to experience some temporary soreness, aching or tenderness following treatment, similar to the feeling of post-exercise muscle soreness. Minor bruising can also occur.

Serious complications are rare. Your practitioner will assess your suitability beforehand and take your health history into consideration.

When might dry needling not be suitable?

Dry needling isn't appropriate for everyone. Your practitioner will discuss this with you, particularly if you:

• Have an infection or open wound around the treatment area

• Have certain bleeding disorders or take medication that significantly increases bleeding risk

• Have recently undergone surgery

• Are pregnant, where certain needling sites or techniques may not be appropriate

• Have a significant fear of needles

• Have a medical condition requiring additional precautions

It's part of the bigger picture

Dry needling isn't designed to be a stand-alone treatment.

We find it works best when it is combined with other aspects of your care, such as exercise, manual therapy and rehabilitation, depending on your individual needs.

The evidence is strongest for short-term relief, with the best results coming when dry needling is incorporated into an individualised treatment plan.

Wondering if dry needling could help you?

If you're dealing with persistent muscle tightness, pain or an injury that isn't settling, speak with your practitioner about whether dry needling may be appropriate for you.

We'll assess your individual needs and work with you to determine whether it's the right treatment option as part of your care.