Dry needling at Above Health helps relieve muscle tension, ease pain and restore natural movement, supporting active people across Hornsby and the Upper North Shore.
Dry needling in Hornsby

About dry needling
What is dry needling?
Benefits of dry needling
How can dry needling help?
Dry needling provides targeted relief by addressing muscle pain at its source and supporting your body’s natural recovery processes.

Common conditions
What conditions can dry needling help with?
Research supports dry needling for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Myofascial pain and trigger points
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Acute and chronic low back pain
- Sports injuries and tendon pain
- Knee and hip osteoarthritis
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Migraine and tension-type headache
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD)
Learn more in our blog post Dry Needling for Muscle Pain and Tension: Does it Really Work?
Who is dry needling for?
Dry needling for active lifestyles
Dry needling can help a wide range of people, from young athletes to older adults staying active for long-term health.
A step-by-step guide to dry needling
What to expect at your appointment
Your appointment is calm, structured and grounded in clinical safety. Every step is designed to help you feel informed, comfortable and confident in your care.
Where appropriate, we also work with your GP, specialists and other health professionals to keep your care coordinated and connected.

Meet our dry needling team
Your dry needling practitioner in Hornsby on the Upper North Shore of Sydney
Jerome Smith is an experienced sports osteopath with a Level 3 qualification in advanced dry needling.
Located in Hornsby, Jerome provides safe, effective dry needling as part of a tailored plan to support your active lifestyle.
Dry needling FAQs
Frequently asked questions about dry needling
Clear answers to common questions about safety, expectations and results.
Choosing dry needling
Dry needling is based on modern anatomy and pain science, whereas acupuncture originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Dry needling is commonly used for muscle pain and movement-related issues.
Learn more in our blog post What is Dry Needling and How is it Different from Acupuncture?
No referral is needed.
If your GP or specialist is involved in your care, we’re happy to collaborate with them.
Most people can safely receive dry needling, including teens and older adults.
We always check for conditions, medications or circumstances that might make dry needling unsuitable, such as pregnancy or blood disorders.
Results and recovery
Dry needling is well-supported by research for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Learn more in our blog post Dry Needling for Muscle Pain and Tension: Does it Really Work?
Most people feel relaxed, but mildly sore and tired.
These sensations typically settle within 24-48 hours.
If you experience anything unusual or prolonged, please reach out to us via our Contact Us page.
Light activity is usually fine the same day.
More intense exercise is best resumed the following day.
Dry needling treatment
Targeting a sensitive point within a muscle can create a brief twitch that helps the muscle relax and function normally.
Learn more in our blog post What is Dry Needling and How is it Different from Acupuncture?
Yes, when performed by qualified practitioners using sterile equipment.
Mild soreness, bruising or fatigue may occur. This usually settles within 24-48 hours.
Learn more in our blog post Is Dry Needling Safe? What to Expect Before and After Treatment.
Most people do not find dry needling painful.
You may feel a brief ache or twitch when a trigger point is stimulated.
Your practitioner will ensure you are comfortable throughout your treatment.
Costs and rebates
Dry needling is charged as a $10 additional fee on top of your appointment fee.
See all our fees on our FAQs & Fees page.
Yes, when included as part of an allied health appointment under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan.
Bring your referral and Medicare card so we can process your rebates on the spot.
Most private health funds provide rebates for allied health sessions that include dry needling.
Our care commitment
Your care always comes first
At Above Health, we’re committed to doing what’s best for you.
We provide thoughtful, evidence-led care delivered with clarity, professionalism and respect. You will always leave your appointment with a clear understanding of what’s happening and a structured plan to support your recovery.
If your needs fall outside our scope, we will guide you towards the most appropriate practitioner or service to ensure you receive the right support.