Dry Needling

Dry needling is one technique a physiotherapist may consider as part of a broader treatment plan for muscle-related pain, sensitivity or restricted movement. It is not suitable for every person or every condition, so the first step at Burleigh Central Physiotherapy is an individual assessment.

Our clinic is located at 11/109 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads. To ask whether an appointment may be appropriate, call 07 5576 0747.

What is Dry Needling

Dry needling involves inserting a fine, sterile, single-use needle into selected muscle or soft-tissue areas. The word “dry” means that the needle does not inject medication.

Physiotherapists who use dry needling select the area after considering your symptoms, health history, movement and physical assessment. Although the same type of fine needle may be used in acupuncture, dry needling is applied within a physiotherapy assessment and treatment framework.

When might a physiotherapist consider dry needling?

A physiotherapist may discuss dry needling when muscle pain, local sensitivity or restricted movement is affecting everyday activity or rehabilitation. It may be considered for some musculoskeletal presentations, but it is not a stand-alone answer to every pain problem.

Research suggests dry needling may provide short-term symptom relief for some people and conditions. Results vary, and evidence for longer-term improvement is less certain. Where it is clinically appropriate, we generally use it alongside education, movement, exercise and other physiotherapy strategies that address your individual goals.

What happens at an appointment?

Your physiotherapist asks about your symptoms, health history, medications and previous treatment.
They assess the area and discuss likely contributors to your symptoms.
They explain the proposed technique, alternatives, expected sensations and relevant risks.
They ask for your consent. You can change your mind or ask to stop at any time.

During treatment, you may feel a brief prick, pressure or a muscle twitch. Sensations differ from person to person. Your physiotherapist will check how you are responding and adapt or stop the technique when needed.

What can I expect afterwards?

Some people experience temporary soreness, tenderness, minor bleeding or bruising after dry needling. Feeling light-headed or faint can also occur. Your physiotherapist will explain what is relevant to the body area being treated and what to do if you have concerns after the appointment.

Serious complications are uncommon, but they can occur. This is why screening, informed consent, appropriate technique and clear aftercare advice matter. Contact the clinic if you develop an unexpected or concerning symptom after treatment. Seek urgent medical care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Tell your physiotherapist before treatment

Please tell your physiotherapist if you:

are pregnant or think you may be pregnant;
take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication, or have a bleeding disorder;
have an infection, skin change or wound near the proposed treatment area;
have a medical condition or implanted device that may affect treatment;
have previously fainted or felt unwell around needles; or
have any concern about dry needling or would prefer another approach.

This information helps your physiotherapist decide whether dry needling is appropriate, whether the technique should be modified, or whether another option would be preferable.

Dry needling as part of a rehabilitation plan

If dry needling is used, your physiotherapist will monitor whether it is helping with the goals agreed during your assessment. Your plan may also include advice about activity, mobility or strengthening exercises, load management and other hands-on techniques.

There is no fixed number of sessions that suits everyone. If the technique is not helping, is not well tolerated or is no longer needed, your physiotherapist can discuss a different approach.

Frequently asked questions

Is dry needling painful?

The experience varies. You may notice a brief prick, an ache or a muscle twitch. Some people have temporary soreness afterwards. Tell your physiotherapist how you feel throughout the treatment so they can respond.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

No. Both may use fine needles, but dry needling at our clinic is selected and delivered within a physiotherapy assessment and treatment plan. Acupuncture is based on a different assessment and practice framework.

Will dry needling fix my pain?

No treatment can guarantee a particular result. Dry needling may help with short-term symptoms for some people, but its value depends on the condition, the person and the wider treatment plan. Your physiotherapist will discuss realistic options after assessing you.

Can everyone have dry needling?

No. It may be unsuitable or require extra precautions in some circumstances. Your physiotherapist will screen for relevant risks and discuss alternatives before seeking consent.

Make an Appointment

If pain or restricted movement is affecting your day, book a physiotherapy assessment to discuss your options. Dry needling will only be recommended when your physiotherapist considers it appropriate for your presentation and preferences.

Burleigh Central Physiotherapy

11/109 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220

Monday to Friday, 8:00 am–6:00 pm

Call 07 5576 0747

This information is general and does not replace individual medical or physiotherapy advice.

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Contact Us

11/109 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads, Qld 4220.
07 5576 0747
[email protected]