Burwood NSW · Dry Needling
Dry needling is a highly effective technique for releasing muscle trigger points, reducing pain, and restoring normal movement — commonly used alongside other physiotherapy treatments for faster results.
Using fine sterile needles inserted directly into trigger points within tight muscles, dry needling stimulates a local twitch response that releases the knot and rapidly reduces pain and muscle tension.

How We Can Help
Evidence-based treatment options tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Trigger Point Release
Targeting tight, hyper-irritable spots within muscle that cause local and referred pain. Dry needling provides rapid, lasting relief of trigger point pain.
Learn more →Tension Headaches
Trigger points in the neck, upper trapezius and suboccipital muscles are a major cause of tension headaches. Dry needling provides fast relief.
Learn more →Neck & Back Pain
Deep muscle tension in the neck, thoracic, and lumbar spine responds exceptionally well to dry needling, often within 1–3 sessions.
Learn more →Muscle Tightness & Spasm
Chronically tight or spasmed muscles in the shoulders, hips, calves, and quads are quickly released, improving range of motion immediately.
Learn more →Sports Recovery
Accelerate recovery from intense training by releasing accumulated tension and trigger points before they become injuries.
Learn more →Referred Limb Pain
Trigger points in the hip, glutes and thoracic spine often refer pain into the legs and arms — dry needling treats the source, not just the symptom.
Learn more →Is Dry Needling Right for You?
Dry needling is commonly used for tight, overactive muscles and trigger points that haven’t responded to other treatment, restricted movement linked to muscle tension, and as an adjunct to exercise-based rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will assess whether it’s appropriate for your specific presentation before including it in your treatment plan.
What Happens at Your First Appointment?
Full Assessment
Detailed history, movement analysis and clinical tests to identify the root cause of your problem.
Diagnosis & Plan
We explain exactly what is going on and create a realistic, goal-focused treatment timeline.
Hands-On Treatment
Most patients receive treatment in their first session — manual therapy, needling, or exercise prescription.
Home Program
You leave with a clear plan of exercises and self-management strategies to accelerate your recovery.
Why Choose Burwood Physio?
- AHPRA-registered physiotherapists
- Same-day and next-day appointments available
- HICAPS on-site — claim health fund rebate instantly
- Medicare bulk billing with GP CDM plan
- NDIS registered provider
- WorkCover and icare accepted
- Evidence-based treatment — no unnecessary sessions
- 2 minutes walk from Burwood Station
📍 Located in Burwood: Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria St East, Burwood NSW 2134. 2 min from Burwood Station. Open Mon–Sat.
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Dry needling targets muscular trigger points based on Western anatomical principles. Traditional acupuncture follows Chinese medicine meridian theory.
Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients feel a brief twitch when the needle enters a trigger point. Mild muscle soreness for 24–48 hours after is common.
How quickly does dry needling work?
Many patients notice reduced pain and improved movement within 1–3 sessions.
Is dry needling safe?
Yes. Dry needling performed by a trained physiotherapist using sterile, single-use needles is very safe.
Can dry needling help with headaches?
Yes. Dry needling is effective for cervicogenic and tension-type headaches caused by trigger points in the neck and upper back.
What conditions can dry needling treat?
Dry needling is commonly used for muscle tension, back and neck pain, sports injuries, tendinopathies, and myofascial trigger points contributing to restricted movement.
How many dry needling sessions will I need?
This varies by condition, but many patients have dry needling as part of a broader treatment plan over 4–6 sessions, often combined with manual therapy and exercise.
Is dry needling covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
Dry needling performed by a physiotherapist is typically covered under physiotherapy item numbers for private health extras cover. Medicare rebates depend on your specific plan, such as a GP Chronic Disease Management referral.
Experience the relief of dry needling
Most patients feel a difference after their very first session.