At Northside Osteopathy in Aspley, we use Dry Needling and Western Medical Acupuncture to complement hands-on osteopathic treatment. These techniques help relieve muscle tightness, reduce inflammation, and promote healing by stimulating the body's natural pain-relief and repair processes.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry Needling involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into tight or overactive muscles known as trigger points. This creates a small, controlled stimulation that releases muscle tension, improves blood flow, and reduces local and referred pain. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is based on energy meridians, dry needling is grounded in modern anatomy and neurophysiology.
What Is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical (or Western) acupuncture uses the same fine needles but targets specific points that influence the nervous system. It encourages the release of endorphins and serotonin, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. This method can calm nerve irritation, improve circulation, and reduce stress-related muscle tension.
How These Therapies Help
Dry Needling and Medical Acupuncture can:
- Release deep-seated muscle tension and trigger points
- Improve joint and soft-tissue mobility
- Reduce inflammation and pain sensitivity
- Enhance blood flow and tissue healing
- Support recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strain
- Complement osteopathic treatment for faster results
Conditions Treated
These treatments are commonly used for:
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Back pain and sciatica
- Headaches and jaw pain (TMJ dysfunction)
- Tennis or golfer's elbow
- Hip, knee, and leg pain
- Muscle tightness from stress or posture
- Sports and overuse injuries
What to Expect
Your first session includes:
Your osteopath assesses your condition and explains where the needles will be placed.
Fine sterile needles are gently inserted into target points.
You may feel a brief twitch or dull ache as the muscle releases — a normal sign the therapy is working.
Treatment lasts 10–20 minutes; many patients feel lighter and more relaxed afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
