DRY NEEDLING GOLD COAST

Origins & Philosophy
Acupuncture has been used for over 2,000 years and includes ashi needling, which involves needling tender muscle knots—probably the same as what modern medicine calls trigger points. This approach was documented as early as 652AD.

Some believe dry needling is a modern rediscovery of ashi needling since both focus on releasing tight muscles. However, acupuncture is part of a broader health system, while dry needling was developed in the 20th century as a biomedical approach focused only on muscles.

Needling Techniques & Strategies
Both acupuncture and dry needling are valuable for relieving muscle pain and tension, but they use different methods.

Acupuncture uses various needling techniques and other therapies like cupping and moxibustion to support both muscle relief and overall well-being. Needling tender muscle knots is just one of many acupuncture strategies used for pain.

Dry needling is more direct, focusing only on tight muscle knots with strong stimulation to trigger a twitch response. Acupuncture combines different strategies, while dry needling is mainly focused on muscle release.

Treatment Focus & Scope
Acupuncture takes a broader approach, considering not just muscle pain, but also other factors like inflammation, nervous system function, and stress.

Dry needling is highly focused on releasing trigger points and is often used for sports injuries, posture issues, and movement problems. While it helps with muscle tension, it does not address deeper health factors the way acupuncture does.

Stimulation & Sensation
Both acupuncture and dry needling work on deep muscle layers, but the way they stimulate the body is different.

Acupuncture can be gentle or strong, creating a deep ache, warmth, or a spreading sensation that may travel along the body.

Dry needling focuses on creating a twitch response, a quick muscle contraction that helps loosen tight knots. Acupuncture is more flexible in how it stimulates the body, while dry needling is more direct and focused on muscle release.

Training & Regulation
Acupuncturists complete three to four years of training and are registered with AHPRA, ensuring they learn both traditional and modern needling techniques safely.

Dry needling is a technique rather than a profession, with training ranging from a few days to several months, depending on the practitioner’s background.

Final Summary / Verdict

Both acupuncture and dry needling use needles to relieve muscle tension, but they focus on different things:

• Acupuncture uses different needling techniques within a broader health approach, considering muscle pain alongside other health factors.

• Dry needling is highly focused on muscle release and is commonly used for tight muscles and movement issues.

Acupuncturists receive in-depth training in both traditional and modern needling methods, making them well-prepared to perform dry needling safely and effectively as part of a wider treatment plan.

Dry needling is commonly used to relieve pain and improve movement in musculoskeletal conditions. Research suggests it is particularly effective for conditions involving muscle tension, trigger points, and movement restrictions. It has been studied for:

✔ Neck and back pain – Can help reduce tension and improve mobility in conditions like chronic low back pain, whiplash, and neck stiffness​.
✔ Sports injuries and muscle strains – Supports recovery from hamstring strains, calf tightness, and rotator cuff issues​.
✔ Headaches and jaw pain – May help relieve tension headaches and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction​.
✔ Tendinopathies and joint pain – Has been explored for conditions like tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, hip osteoarthritis, and knee pain​.
✔ Fibromyalgia and chronic pain conditions – Can be part of a broader pain management plan​.

While dry needling can be beneficial, it is often most effective when combined with other treatments such as movement-based therapy or exercise​.

Yes, dry needling is generally considered safe when performed by a trained professional. Research indicates that serious adverse events are rare, and most side effects are mild and temporary​.

Like any needling technique, safety depends on proper technique, practitioner experience, and patient health factors. Acupuncturists and other qualified professionals receive training in needle insertion depth, anatomical safety, and risk reduction to ensure safe treatment​.

Dry needling is not recommended for individuals with bleeding disorders, needle phobia, or certain medical conditions. If you have concerns, discuss them with a qualified practitioner before treatment.

Most side effects from dry needling are mild and short-lived. Common reactions include:

✔ Soreness or tenderness – Temporary muscle soreness at the needling site is common but usually fades within 24–48 hours​.
✔ Bruising or minor bleeding – Small bruises can occur, especially in sensitive areas​.
✔ Fatigue or dizziness – Some people feel lightheaded or fatigued after treatment, but this typically resolves quickly​.
✔ Muscle twitching – A twitch response is part of the treatment process and is generally harmless​.

Serious complications like nerve damage, infection, or lung puncture (pneumothorax) are extremely rare when performed by a properly trained practitioner​. Following aftercare instructions—such as staying hydrated and avoiding intense activity immediately after treatment—can help minimize discomfort.

The number of dry needling sessions varies based on the condition, pain severity, and individual response. Some people notice improvement after one session, but multiple treatments are often recommended for lasting relief.

• Acute pain or recent injuries – 1–3 sessions may provide significant relief.

• Chronic pain or persistent conditions – Typically 4–10 sessions, spaced over several weeks.

• Ongoing maintenance – Some people choose periodic treatments to promote health.

At Traditional Acupuncture Clinic, dry needling is performed by Adam Hjort, a Registered Acupuncturist with over 15 years of experience in acupuncture and musculoskeletal pain treatment.

Adam’s training includes both traditional acupuncture techniques and modern dry needling methods, ensuring a safe, effective, and professional approach.

Insurance coverage for dry needling depends on your health fund and the qualifications of your practitioner.

• If performed by a registered acupuncturist, like at our clinic, dry needling may be eligible for private health fund rebates under acupuncture coverage.

• If performed by a physiotherapist or other provider, coverage varies based on individual health fund policies.

To confirm eligibility, check with your private health insurer and ask if acupuncture services that include dry needling are covered under your plan.

Key Takeaway: Dry needling may be covered under acupuncture benefits when performed by a Registered Acupuncturist. Always check with your health fund provider for details.

Preparing for dry needling is simple. To get the best results and minimize discomfort, follow these steps:

✔ Eat a light meal – Avoid coming in on an empty stomach to prevent dizziness.
✔ Wear loose, comfortable clothing – This makes it easier to access the treatment area.
✔ Avoid intense workouts before your session – Muscles should be relaxed for better results.
✔ Communicate any health conditions or medications – Let your practitioner know about any medical conditions, recent injuries, or blood thinners.

Key Takeaway: Staying nourished and relaxed helps make your dry needling session more comfortable and effective.

After dry needling, mild soreness or muscle fatigue is common. To support recovery and maximize benefits, follow these aftercare tips:

✔ Stay hydrated – Drinking water helps flush out metabolic waste from muscle release.
✔ Move gently – Light stretching or movement keeps muscles loose, but avoid intense exercise for 24 hours.
✔ Apply heat if needed – Heat relaxes muscles, and supports treatment.
✔ Rest if fatigued – Some people feel tired after treatment; listen to your body.

Key Takeaway: Staying hydrated, moving gently, and using heat as needed can reduce soreness and improve recovery after dry needling.