What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is one of the treatment techniques/modalities used by physiotherapists to treat muscle pain, tension and movement restrictions. Very fine, sterile needles are inserted into specific “trigger points” in a muscle to help release tight bands of tissue, improve circulation and reduce pain.

At Sport & Spine Physiotherapy Newcastle, our experienced physiotherapists have been helping clients with advanced treatment techniques for over 30 years, including the safe and effective use of dry needling.

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture: What’s the Difference?

Although dry needling and acupuncture both use thin needles, they are very different in approach and philosophy:

• Acupuncture comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine and is based on restoring energy flow (Qi) along meridians in the body.

• Dry needling, on the other hand, is grounded in western medical science and focuses on releasing myofascial trigger points that contribute to pain and dysfunction.

• Acupuncture is often used for overall wellbeing, whereas dry needling is specifically targeted to improve muscle performance, mobility, and pain relief.

Why Is Dry Needling Used in Physiotherapy?

Dry needling is a valuable tool in physiotherapy because it can:

• Relieve muscle pain and tension

• Improve joint movement by reducing muscle tightness

• Enhance recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strain

• Accelerate rehabilitation after surgery or chronic pain conditions

• Support other physiotherapy treatments, such as manual therapy and exercise

Many clients report immediate relief of muscle tightness after treatment, making it an effective complement to hands-on physiotherapy and tailored exercise programs.

Conditions That May Benefit from Dry Needling

Physiotherapists at Sport & Spine may recommend dry needling for:

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Back pain

• Headaches related to muscle tightness

• Sports injuries (hamstring, calf, or quad strains)

• Overuse injuries like tennis elbow or shin splints

Why Choose Sport & Spine Physiotherapy?

• Over 30 years’ experience treating Newcastle and the Hunter community

• Physiotherapists trained in dry needling and advanced pain-management techniques

• Integrated care — combining dry needling with manual therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation for the best results

• A long history of supporting local athletes, dancers and active individuals

If you’re struggling with muscle pain, tightness, or slow recovery, dry needling at Sport & Spine Physiotherapy Newcastle could help. Our team will assess whether it’s right for you and integrate it into a personalised treatment plan.

Call us today on 024957 3747 or book online to start moving freely again.