Dry needling is one of the techniques our osteopaths use at HealthState's Perth clinics — North Perth, Midland & Mundaring — as part of a whole-body, hands-on treatment plan. Fine, sterile needles are inserted into tight bands of muscle (often called trigger points) with the aim of reducing muscle tension & easing movement.

At HealthState, dry needling is never a standalone fix. Your osteopath first assesses how your whole body is moving, then uses dry needling where appropriate alongside soft-tissue techniques, joint mobilisation & exercise advice — always with your consent, & always explained first. Book online at any of our three clinics.

  • What dry needling may help with

    Patients commonly discuss dry needling with us for:

    • Tight, overworked muscles in the neck, shoulders & back

      Muscle tension linked to desk work & posture

    • Sports-related muscle tightness & recovery

      Hip & leg muscle complaints affecting training

    Responses vary from person to person — your osteopath will give you an honest view of whether it suits your presentation, & other options if it doesn't.

  • What it feels like & what to expect

    The needles are much finer than injection needles. Most people feel a brief twitch or a dull ache at the point, often followed by a sense of the muscle letting go. Mild soreness for a day or so afterwards is common, similar to post-exercise soreness.

    Dry needling is different from acupuncture: acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine, while dry needling targets specific muscle trigger points identified in your assessment.

    We only ever use sterile, single-use needles, & dry needling is always optional — if you'd prefer hands-on techniques only, just say so.

Frequently asked questions

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    Is dry needling safe?

    When performed by trained, registered practitioners using sterile single-use needles, dry needling is considered low-risk. The most common side effect is mild, short-lived soreness. Your osteopath screens your history first & explains everything before starting.

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    Does dry needling hurt?

    Most people feel only a brief twitch or dull ache. It's generally well tolerated — & you're in control; we stop or adjust any time you ask

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    Is dry needling covered by private health?

    Dry needling performed within an osteopathy consultation is claimed as osteopathy — HICAPS is available at our clinics for on-the-spot claims, depending on your extras cover.

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    Do I need a referral?

    No — book directly online at any of our three Perth clinics.

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