Dry Needling: How It Works & Its Benefits

Dry needling is a technique used by osteopaths and other healthcare professionals to relieve muscle pain and improve movement.
Belicia Ralph
27/02/2025
Frankston Osteopath Needling

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a technique used by osteopaths and other healthcare professionals to relieve muscle pain and improve movement. It involves inserting thin, sterile needles (similar to the needles used for acupuncture) into trigger points – tight knots in muscles that can cause pain and dysfunction.

Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on modern anatomy and neurophysiology.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it stimulates the muscle to contract and relax, improving blood flow and reducing tension.

This helps:

✅ Relieve muscle pain and tightness
✅ Improve flexibility and range of motion
✅ Enhance the body’s natural healing process
✅ Reduce inflammation and promote circulation

Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling?

Dry needling is effective for various conditions, including:

  • Chronic pain (back, neck, and shoulder pain)
  • Sports injuries (muscle strains, ligament injuries)
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Tendonopathies (e.g. tennis elbow)
  • Postural issues and muscle imbalances
  • Pregnancy-related muscle tension

What to Expect During a Dry Needling Session

At Precision Osteopathy, our trained Frankston osteopaths will assess your condition and determine if dry needling is suitable for you. A typical session involves:

1️⃣ Identifying trigger points through assessment.
2️⃣ Gently insert sterile, fine needles into the affected muscles.
3️⃣ A brief muscle twitch response, followed by relaxation.
4️⃣ Aftercare advice, including stretching and hydration.

You may experience mild soreness after treatment, similar to a workout, but this usually subsides within 24-48 hours.

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes! When performed by a qualified professional, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment. Single-use, sterile needles are used and a strict hygiene protocol is followed to ensure your safety.

Book a Dry Needling Session in Frankston

If you’re struggling with muscle pain or tightness, dry needling at Precision Osteopathy could help. Contact our Frankston osteopaths today to book an appointment and experience the benefits firsthand!


📞 Call us: 0480 693 946 📍 Visit us: 16 Fairway St, Frankston, VIC
🌐 Book online: www.precisionosteopathy.com.au

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