Dry Needling

• Muscle pain or stiffness
• Acute and chronic back and neck pain
• Pelvic girdle pain
• Knee osteoarthritis
• Lateral elbow pain (tennis or golfer’s elbow)
• Shoulder conditions

Although there are some clear similarities, it is not the same. DN uses a western medical and anatomical approach to guide needle placements with the aim of restoring normal tissue function and reducing pain. In comparison, acupuncture uses traditional eastern philosophy that involves the utilisation of meridian or points based on an East Asian Medicine diagnosis and theories to treat local and systemic conditions.

Dry Needling may help to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and reduce unwanted tissue tension and trigger points that may be slowing your rehabilitation and return to full activities. Although the precise mechanisms are complex and not fully known, dry needling is thought to decrease pain via local and central nervous system responses, as well as promote local physiological and chemical changes to restore homeostasis (normal balance) in the muscle tissue.

There is sometimes a small scratch as the needle penetrates the skin, but with skilled practitioners this is usually very minor. Depending on the specific needling methods used, some people experience some local and referred sensitivity and replication of their usual pain, but this should always remain tolerable. Your practitioner will guide you through the treatment to reduce any discomfort.

At Complete Physio Richmond all of our clinical practitioners are a minimum of degree qualified, with excellent anatomical knowledge to ensure all appropriate precautions are taken during treatment.

Dry needling is considered a safe treatment approach², but like any invasive procedure, there are risks. Most adverse events are mild in nature, with serious adverse events considered to be very rare³.  Mild adverse events can include minor bleeding or bruising, or an increase in discomfort during and immediately after treatment. These are likely to resolve within 1-2 days. Serious adverse events can include the following:

• Minor to moderate dizziness during or after treatment
• Fainting and or convulsions (Vasovagal syncope)
• Infection
• Damage to viscera – including lungs and other organ tissues
• Post-treatment drowsiness
• Localised swelling/burning/aching pain

Precautions will be taken by your practitioner to reduce the chances of any treatment side effects.