What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique where a thin, sterile needle is inserted into a trigger point — a tight knot within a muscle that causes local pain or refers pain to another area of the body.
The word "dry" simply means no substance is injected through the needle. The needle itself creates the therapeutic effect by stimulating the muscle tissue.
The goal is to:
- Release tight muscle knots (trigger points)
- Reduce localised muscle pain
- Improve range of motion
- Restore normal muscle function
How Is Dry Needling Different from Acupuncture?
This is one of the most common questions we get.
Although both techniques use thin needles, they are very different in purpose and philosophy:
Dry needling is based on Western anatomy and neuroscience. It specifically targets muscle trigger points and is used to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. It works along energy pathways called meridians and is used for a broader range of health conditions.
At BodySens Studio, dry needling is used as part of a broader remedial massage and rehabilitation approach — not as a standalone treatment.
What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help With?
Dry needling can be an effective treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Headaches and migraines triggered by tight neck or upper back muscles
- Rotator cuff injuries
- IT band syndrome in runners
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
- Hip flexor tightness
- Hamstring and calf strains
- Postural pain from long hours at a desk
If you have a persistent area of pain or tightness that hasn't resolved with stretching or regular massage, dry needling may be the missing piece of your recovery.
Does Dry Needling Hurt?
This is the question most people want answered before they commit.
The needles used are very fine — much thinner than a standard medical needle. Most people feel little to no pain as the needle is inserted through the skin.
When the needle reaches a trigger point, you may experience a brief muscle twitch or a deep aching sensation. This is actually a positive sign — it means the needle has located the area of dysfunction and is beginning to release it.
After the twitch, most clients describe a feeling of deep relaxation or relief in that muscle.
Some mild soreness in the treated area is normal for 24–48 hours after a session, similar to the feeling after a heavy workout. This is your body responding and beginning to heal.
What to Expect During Your First Dry Needling Session at BodySens
Here is what a typical session looks like:
1. Assessment
Before any needles are used, your therapist will assess your movement, posture, and areas of pain. This helps identify which muscles are holding tension and contributing to your symptoms.
2. Treatment
Needles are inserted into specific trigger points. They may be left in place for a short period or moved gently to stimulate the muscle. Most clients find the experience much easier than they expected.
3. Post-Needling Massage or Mobility Work
At BodySens, dry needling is almost always combined with remedial massage and movement work. Once the muscle has been released with the needle, hands-on therapy and mobility exercises help maintain the release and restore full function.
4. Home Advice
You will be given guidance on movement, hydration, and any stretches or exercises to support your recovery between sessions.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This depends on the nature and duration of your condition.
Many clients notice a significant improvement after just one or two sessions. For longer-standing or complex conditions, a short course of treatment — typically three to six sessions — is often recommended.
Your therapist will give you an honest assessment of what to expect at your first appointment.
Is Dry Needling Safe?
When performed by a qualified and trained therapist, dry needling is very safe.
At BodySens Studio, dry needling is only performed by therapists with the appropriate training and qualifications. We use sterile, single-use needles for every session. Hygiene and client safety are always the priority.
If you have a fear of needles, a bleeding disorder, are pregnant, or are taking blood thinners, let us know before your session and we will discuss the most appropriate approach for you.
Dry Needling at BodySens Studio in Osborne Park
At BodySens Studio, dry needling is integrated into our remedial massage and rehabilitation sessions — not offered in isolation. We believe the best results come from combining the right techniques at the right time.
Whether you are an athlete recovering from injury, a desk worker dealing with chronic neck pain, or someone who has been carrying the same tension for years, we can help you understand what is happening in your body and develop a plan to fix it.
Our clinic is located in Osborne Park, close to Innaloo, Stirling, and Wembley.
Private health fund rebates are available for remedial massage sessions that include dry needling.
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