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.

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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?

Do you offer home visits?

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.