Dry needling in Matraville
Dry needling at Solana Health uses fine, single-use needles to release tight bands and trigger points in muscle. It's available on its own or as part of a chiropractic consultation at our Bunnerong Road clinic.
Dry needling is a technique used by chiropractors and physiotherapists to treat myofascial trigger points, the tight, tender knots in muscle that can cause local and referred pain. A thin filament needle is inserted into the trigger point to prompt the muscle to release.
How dry needling works
Dry needling is "dry" because nothing is injected. The needle itself stimulates the trigger point, often producing a brief local twitch response, after which the muscle tends to relax and local blood flow improves. It's quick and precise, and reaches tension that hands alone can't always get to, which makes it useful when a muscle keeps tightening back up between visits.
At Solana Health, dry needling is used as one part of a broader plan alongside hands-on treatment, movement and exercise, rather than as a stand-alone fix. Angelo will talk you through whether it's suitable, how it feels and what's normal afterwards before starting.
Commonly used for
- Trigger points and muscle knots
- Persistent neck and shoulder tension
- Tension-type headaches with a muscular component
- Tight calves, hamstrings and glutes
- Jaw-related muscle tension
- Post-training tightness and slow recovery
- Lower back muscle spasm
When dry needling isn't suitable
Dry needling is avoided or modified if you have a needle phobia, a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners, have a compromised immune system, lymphoedema in the area, or are in the first trimester of pregnancy. Angelo screens for these at your appointment.
Dry needling questions, answered
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
No. Both use fine needles, but dry needling is guided by a musculoskeletal assessment and targets specific tight bands or trigger points in muscle. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and meridian points.
Does dry needling hurt?
You'll usually feel a brief twitch or deep ache when the needle reaches a trigger point, which settles quickly. Mild soreness for up to 48 hours afterwards is common, similar to post-exercise soreness.
Is dry needling safe?
When performed by a trained, registered practitioner using sterile single-use needles, dry needling has a low risk of complications. Angelo screens for any reasons it may not be suitable for you before treatment. Minor bruising or soreness is the most common side effect.
Can I book dry needling on its own?
Yes. Dry needling can be booked as a stand-alone appointment or included as part of a chiropractic consultation.
What should I do afterwards?
Keep moving gently, drink water and avoid heavy training on the treated area for the rest of the day. Heat can help if the area feels sore.
get started
Book dry needling in Matraville
Book online in a couple of minutes, or call if you'd rather talk it through first.