What’s the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?

Dry needling is based on musculoskeletal and physiotherapy principles. It targets muscular trigger points to reduce tension and pain, and is different from traditional acupuncture, which is rooted in Chinese medicine and follows different theories and point locations.

Is dry needling safe?

When performed by a trained physiotherapist using sterile, single-use needles, dry needling is considered safe. You may experience temporary soreness, a dull ache or light bruising around the treated area, which usually settles within 24–48 hours.

Does dry needling hurt?

Most people feel only a brief sting or pressure when the needle goes in, followed by a twitch or dull ache as the muscle responds. Your physio will talk you through it and can adjust technique or stop at any time if you’re uncomfortable.

Do I need a referral or specific funding to access this?

You don’t need a referral for private bookings. If you’re attending under Medicare CDM , NDIS , WorkCover , TAC , DVA or My Aged Care , please bring the relevant referral or approval details from your GP or provider so we can align treatment with your plan.

Is dry needling always necessary?

No. Dry needling is one tool we can use—your physiotherapist will only suggest it if it’s likely to help your specific presentation. If you prefer not to have needles, we’ll focus on other evidence-based options like manual therapy and exercise.

How many dry needling sessions will I need?

That depends on your condition, how long it’s been present, and how you respond to treatment. For some people, a few sessions provides enough change; others benefit from dry needling as part of a broader rehab plan. Your physio will discuss expectations at your first visit.

Where are you located?

Mernda: 136 Schotters Rd, Mernda VIC 3754. Reservoir: 224A Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073. See our Locations page for directions, parking and clinic photos at each.

Dry Needling — Physiotherapist-Led Treatment

Targeted dry needling to release tight muscles, ease pain and improve movement

Delivered by qualified physiotherapists at our Mernda and Reservoir clinics.

Rated 5/5 on Google

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Benefits

Why choose dry needling here

Here’s what to expect from working with us — clear assessment, evidence-based treatment, and care that adapts to your goals.

Release tight bands

Helps calm overactive muscles and “knots”, reducing local and referred pain.

Move better, sooner

Improved muscle relaxation and range can speed up rehab and make daily tasks more comfortable.

Support recovery

Complements manual therapy and exercise to address both symptoms and underlying movement issues.

Understand your body

Your physio explains what’s being treated, why it helps, and what you can do between sessions.

Who It Helps

Is dry needling right for you?

Dry needling may be useful if you’re experiencing:

Neck, shoulder or upper-back tightness from work, posture or stress.

Headaches associated with muscle tension around the neck and shoulders.

Lower-back or hip pain where muscles feel tight, knotted or “locked up”.

Sports or overuse injuries (e.g. calves, hamstrings, forearms) with persistent tightness or trigger points.

Ongoing muscle soreness that hasn’t fully settled with stretching or basic massage alone.

How It Works

What to expect in a dry needling session

Every appointment is structured around your story. Below is how we work together to get you back to what matters.

01. Brief assessment

We start with a short discussion about your symptoms, history and goals, plus a quick movement and muscle check. This helps your physio identify which areas and trigger points are most likely to benefit from dry needling and how it fits into your overall treatment plan.

02. Treatment

Very fine, sterile needles are inserted into specific points in the muscle. You may feel a brief twitch, dull ache or heaviness in the area as the muscle responds and relaxes. Your physiotherapist:

Chooses needle size and depth based on your body and condition

Adjusts technique and duration to your comfort and goals

Combines needling with other treatment (e.g. gentle manual therapy or stretching) where appropriate

You’re encouraged to speak up at any time if you’d like a lighter approach or need a break.

03. Progress

After treatment, you may feel looser, with some mild post-treatment soreness similar to a workout for 24–48 hours. Your physio will:

Review how you respond

Provide simple aftercare tips (hydration, heat/ice if needed, activity guidance)

Pair dry needling with targeted exercises, posture advice or load management so changes last between sessions

Testimonials

What Our Patients Said

Real feedback from people we’ve helped with pain, injury and movement problems across our Mernda and Reservoir clinics.

Google rating from local patients

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Tracey Jones 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Would recommend 100%, very punctual, professional and caring
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   eunice 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was referred to Stephanie by my GP for my tendinitis. I finished 5 sessions with her and my hip pain has greatly improved and learned tips about stretching and exercises to manage my condition. I highly recommend Stephanie for your physio needs!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Potter 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely rapt with the service and treatment I receive from Stephanie at radiant health care, highly recommend for all your physiotherapy needs.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nita Rana 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended Stephanie. She is very helpful and has a great knowledge about physiotherapy. I already feel such a relief with my CTS and shoulder pain after seeing her and doing excercise regularly.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Agib 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stephanie really helped me with my lower back pain. She also helped with my knee pain and gave me exercises that helped a lot. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Julia Gao 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really enjoyed my first visit to Radiant Care today. Stephanie is really good. She not only provided a good treatment for my aching buttock, but also instructed me how to further improve that area by a set of exercises at home. Can’t wait for the following up visits to her.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Rofail 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been to Stephanie multiple times and she helped me through my shoulder pain and got me back on track in no time.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   shahina Khan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went in for a appointment today Stephanie was really nice and welcoming she did an amazing job
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   johney kalra 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited my physiotherapist today for back pain, and I’m already feeling so much better. She was professional, friendly, and truly knew how to address the issue with care. I really appreciate her approach and the relief she provided. Highly recommended!

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FAQs

Affordable Pricing that Doesn't Sacrifice Quality

Do I need a GP referral?

Do you accept WorkCover, TAC, NDIS, DVA or My Aged Care?

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How many sessions will I need?

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MEET THE TEAM

Meet your physiotherapists

Stephanie and Mau both see patients across our Mernda and Reservoir clinics. Click a card to read full bios and book direct.

Stephanie

Director & Senior Physiotherapist

Director and Senior Physiotherapist with almost a decade of experience in person-centred care — working from our Mernda and Reservoir clinics. Special interests in chronic pain, sports injuries, women’s health and balance/vestibular conditions.

Mau

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapist with almost 10 years across private practice, community physio and aged care. Special interests in orthopaedic rehabilitation, chronic disease management and sports injuries.