Dry Needling Richmond Melbourne | Expert Physiotherapy Treatment

What is dry needling, and how does it work?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique where fine, sterile needles are inserted into muscle trigger points to release tension and reduce pain. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is based on Western medicine and anatomy, targeting specific muscular and neuromuscular problems. The needles help stimulate the muscle's healing response, improve blood flow, and release tight muscle knots that cause pain and restrict movement.

At Evolutio Sports Physiotherapy, our qualified physiotherapists use dry needling as part of comprehensive sports physiotherapy treatment for athletes and active individuals in Richmond and Melbourne.

Does dry needling hurt?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during dry needling. You may feel a brief pinprick sensation when the needle is inserted, similar to a mosquito bite. When the needle hits a trigger point, you might experience a "twitch response" - a quick muscle contraction that feels like a deep muscle cramp for 1-2 seconds. This twitch is actually a good sign that we've found the right spot! Many patients find the treatment surprisingly comfortable and relaxing.

Our Richmond physiotherapy team prioritises your comfort throughout the entire dry needling process and will explain each step before proceeding.

What's the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?

While both use thin needles, they're completely different treatments:

Dry Needling:

• Based on Western medicine and anatomy

• Targets specific muscle trigger points and fascia

• Focuses on musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction

• Performed by qualified physiotherapists

• Evidence-based approach to muscle and joint problems

Acupuncture:

• Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Uses energy meridians and qi flow concepts

• Treats a wide range of health conditions

• Performed by acupuncturists

• Holistic approach to health and wellness

For more information about the scientific evidence behind dry needling, the Australian Physiotherapy Association provides detailed research-based explanations.

What conditions can dry needling treat?

Dry needling is effective for many conditions, including:

Sports Injuries:

• ITB (iliotibial band) syndrome - learn more about our running physiotherapy services

• Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow

• Rotator cuff injuries - see our shoulder physiotherapy treatments

• Hamstring and calf strains

• Achilles tendon problems - covered in our foot physiotherapy services

Chronic Pain:

• Tension headaches and migraines

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Lower back pain

• Fibromyalgia trigger points

• Myofascial pain syndrome

Workplace Injuries:

• Repetitive strain injuries

• Computer neck and shoulder pain

• Postural muscle tension

We also treat CrossFit athletes and cyclists with sport-specific dry needling techniques.

How many dry needling sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your condition and how your body responds. Many patients notice improvement after the first session, but typically:

• Acute injuries: 1-3 sessions

• Chronic conditions: 3-6 sessions over 2-4 weeks

• Ongoing maintenance: Monthly sessions for chronic conditions

Your Evolutio physiotherapist will assess your progress after each session and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. We'll always give you an honest estimate of expected treatment duration during your initial assessment.

Is dry needling safe?

When performed by qualified physiotherapists like our team at Evolutio, dry needling is very safe. Our Richmond physiotherapists have completed extensive training in dry needling techniques and anatomy through accredited courses recognized by Physiotherapy Board of Australia. We follow strict hygiene protocols, use single-use sterile needles, and maintain the highest safety standards.

Rare side effects may include:

• Minor bruising at needle sites

• Temporary muscle soreness (24-48 hours)

• Slight dizziness (very rare)

We'll thoroughly explain the process and any potential risks during your consultation. For detailed safety information, the Australian Physiotherapy Association's dry needling guidelines provide comprehensive safety protocols.

What should I expect during my first dry needling session?

Before Treatment:

• Detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history

• Physical examination to identify trigger points

• Clear explanation of the dry needling process

• Your consent before we begin

During Treatment:

• You'll be positioned comfortably on our treatment table

• The skin area will be cleaned

• Fine needles are gently inserted into trigger points

• Needles may be left in place for 10-30 minutes

• Some needles may be moved gently to stimulate the muscle

After Treatment:

• Needles are removed and disposal safely

• Post-treatment advice and home care instructions

• Booking of follow-up appointments if needed

Your first session includes comprehensive assessment and treatment planning. Book your initial dry needling consultation to experience our personalized approach.

What should I do after dry needling treatment?

Immediately After (First 24 Hours):

• Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins

• Apply ice if there's any soreness (10-15 minutes)

• Avoid intense exercise or heavy lifting

• Gentle movement and stretching is encouraged

Following Days:

• Return to normal activities as tolerated

• Continue prescribed exercises from your physiotherapist

• Monitor your symptoms and note any improvements

Some patients feel immediate relief, while others may experience temporary soreness before feeling better. This is completely normal. Your physiotherapist will provide detailed aftercare instructions specific to your condition and treatment area.

Can I have dry needling if I'm pregnant?

Dry needling during pregnancy requires special consideration. While it can be safe in many cases, certain trigger points should be avoided. Our Richmond physiotherapists are trained in pregnancy modifications and will work with your doctor to ensure safe treatment. We may recommend alternative manual therapy techniques during pregnancy.

For comprehensive information about physiotherapy during pregnancy, Better Health Victoria provides evidence-based guidelines for safe treatment options.

Do I need a referral for dry needling?

No referral is needed for dry needling at Evolutio. You can book directly with our Richmond clinic. However, if you're claiming through WorkSafe, TAC, or have an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan from your GP, specific referral requirements may apply.

For detailed information about claiming options, visit our frequently asked questions page or contact our team directly.

Is dry needling covered by private health insurance?

Yes, dry needling performed by qualified physiotherapists is typically covered under your physiotherapy benefits with private health insurance. We offer HICAPS for instant claiming, so you only pay the gap fee. Coverage varies between insurers and policies, so we recommend checking your specific benefits.

For more information about private health insurance coverage for physiotherapy, the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman provides detailed explanations of coverage options.

Who performs dry needling at Evolutio?

All dry needling at our Richmond clinic is performed by qualified physiotherapists who have completed additional training in dry needling techniques. Our team includes:

• Bayden Campbell: Principal Physiotherapist with extensive dry needling experience, specialising in running injuries and complex injuries

• Gemma: Senior Physiotherapist specialising in cycling injuries and musculoskeletal conditions

• Catya Josephides: Sports Physiotherapist with expertise in Running, Hip Injuries and athletic performance

• Andy Chalmers: ACL Physiotherapist and Strength and Conditioning Guru

Each practitioner maintains current certification through Australian Physiotherapy Association approved courses and regularly updates their dry needling skills.

Can dry needling be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely! Dry needling works excellently as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. At Evolutio, we often combine dry needling with:

• Manual therapy and joint mobilisation

• Remedial massage therapy

• Exercise prescription and rehabilitation

• Biomechanical correction - including bike fitting assessments

• Sports-specific training modifications

This integrated approach often provides better results than any single treatment alone. Our holistic treatment philosophy is detailed in our sports physiotherapy services page.

How effective is dry needling for sports injuries?

Research shows dry needling can be highly effective for sports-related injuries. A systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found significant improvements in pain and function for various musculoskeletal conditions.

At Evolutio, we've successfully treated:

• Running injuries including ITB syndrome and plantar fasciitis

• Cycling injuries such as cyclist's palsy and saddle-related issues

• CrossFit injuries including Olympic lifting-related muscle tension

• Shoulder injuries in tennis and swimming athletes

• Knee injuries in football and basketball players

How do I book a dry needling appointment in Richmond?

Booking is easy! You can:

Online: Book directly through our website - available 24/7

Phone: Call (03) 9100 3798 during business hours

• Monday-Thursday: 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM

• Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

WhatsApp: Message +61 430 436 531 (messages only)

Walk-in: Visit us at 11/3 Bromham Place, Richmond VIC 3121

We're often booked 2-3 weeks in advance, but cancellations may allow earlier appointments. Don't hesitate to ask about our cancellation list!

What makes Evolutio's dry needling different?

Qualified Expertise: All our physiotherapists are university-qualified with additional dry needling certification through Australian Physiotherapy Association approved courses

Comprehensive Approach: We don't just needle - we identify and treat the underlying cause of your trigger points through detailed biomechanical assessment

Comfortable Environment: Our Richmond clinic offers a relaxed, non-clinical atmosphere with indie music and a warm welcome

Integrated Treatment: Dry needling is part of your overall physiotherapy treatment plan, not a standalone service

Sport-Specific Expertise: We understand the demands of different sports and tailor dry needling for runners, cyclists, and CrossFit athletes

Ongoing Support: We provide detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up to ensure optimal results

Convenient Location: Easy access from Richmond, South Yarra, Prahran, and surrounding Melbourne suburbs

Is dry needling suitable for children and adolescents?

Dry needling can be performed on children and adolescents, but requires special consideration. Our physiotherapists assess each young patient individually, considering factors such as:

• Age and maturity level

• Ability to remain still during treatment

• Parental consent

• Alternative treatment options

For young athletes experiencing sports injuries, we often start with other manual therapy techniques and exercise-based treatments before considering dry needling.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association provides guidelines for pediatric physiotherapy treatments.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any other questions about dry needling or would like to discuss whether it's right for your condition, don't hesitate to contact our Richmond team. We're here to help you understand all your treatment options and make informed decisions about your health.

You can also explore our comprehensive sports physiotherapy services or learn more about our specialised treatment approaches for different conditions and sports.

Contact Evolutio Sports Physiotherapy Richmond: 📞 (03) 9100 3798
💬 WhatsApp: +61 430 436 531
📧 info@evolutio.com.au
📍 11/3 Bromham Place, Richmond VIC 3121

Book Your Dry Needling Consultation Today →