Woman receiving cupping therapy on her back to relieve muscle tension, representing soft tissue treatment at Radiant Chiropractic in Canterbury, Eastern Melbourne.

Dry Needling and Cupping

Dry Needling and Cupping

Dry needling treatment with fine needles inserted into the lower back to relieve muscle tightness and pain

Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy in Canterbury for Muscle Pain Relief and Improved Movement

Dry needling and cupping therapy are effective soft tissue treatments used to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and support faster recovery from pain and injury. At Radiant Chiropractic in Canterbury Eastern Melbourne, these therapies are delivered as part of an evidence based and personalised care plan. Dry needling and cupping therapy can be used on their own or combined with chiropractic care to help restore movement, reduce discomfort, and support long term musculoskeletal health.

Many people experience muscle tightness, trigger points, or restricted movement due to stress, prolonged sitting, repetitive work, or physical training. These issues often do not resolve fully with joint based treatment alone. Dry needling and cupping therapy target the muscular and fascial systems directly, helping address one of the most common underlying contributors to pain and reduced mobility.

What Is Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy

Dry needling is a targeted technique that involves inserting fine sterile needles into specific areas of muscle known as trigger points. These trigger points are tight bands of muscle that can restrict movement, cause pain locally, or refer discomfort to other parts of the body. Dry needling helps calm overactive muscles, reduce sensitivity, and restore normal muscle function.

Cupping therapy uses controlled suction applied through specialised cups placed on the skin. This suction gently lifts the skin and fascia, helping improve blood flow and reduce tissue restriction. Cupping is particularly useful for areas of deep muscle tension, stiffness, or reduced circulation where tissues feel tight or compressed.

Dry needling targets tight or overactive muscles by inserting fine, sterile needles directly into trigger points. It helps:

Cupping uses suction to lift the fascia and increase blood flow to tight or stagnant areas. It’s ideal for:

Dry needling treatment with fine needles inserted into the back to relieve muscle tension and pain

How Dry Needling Supports Recovery

Dry needling works by stimulating a neuromuscular response within tight or dysfunctional muscle tissue. When the needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can help reset abnormal muscle activity and reduce excessive muscle guarding. This allows the muscle to relax and function more efficiently.

Benefits of dry needling may include reduced muscle pain, improved flexibility, and faster recovery from strain or overuse. It is commonly used for neck pain, shoulder tension, lower back discomfort, hip tightness, and sports related muscle issues. Dry needling is always applied with clinical precision and adjusted to suit your comfort level and condition.

How Cupping Therapy Supports Recovery

Cupping therapy supports recovery by improving circulation and reducing fascial restriction. When suction is applied, it encourages blood flow into areas that may be tight or under supplied. This increased circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissue while supporting the removal of metabolic waste.

Cupping can also help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion by allowing tissues to glide more freely. Some patients may notice temporary circular marks after treatment. These marks are not bruises and usually fade within a few days. Your chiropractor will explain what to expect and ensure cupping therapy is appropriate for your condition.

Why Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy Are Effective Together

Dry needling and cupping therapy are often used together because they address muscle dysfunction in complementary ways. Dry needling targets specific trigger points within the muscle, while cupping works across a broader area of fascia and connective tissue.


When combined with chiropractic adjustments, these therapies help improve overall movement quality and reduce strain on joints. Addressing both joint mechanics and muscle function allows care to be more effective and helps reduce the likelihood of recurring pain. This integrated approach is particularly valuable for people with postural strain, repetitive work demands, or ongoing training loads.

Conditions That May Benefit From Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy

Dry needling and cupping therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of acute and chronic muscle related conditions. These treatments are often recommended when muscle tension or restriction is contributing to pain or limiting movement.


Common conditions that may benefit include muscle strains, trigger points, neck and shoulder tension, lower back pain, hip tightness, sports related muscle injuries, and work related muscular stress. Your chiropractor will assess your condition and determine whether one or both techniques are appropriate for your care plan.

What to Expect During Treatment

Before treatment begins, your chiropractor will assess your posture, movement patterns, and muscle function. This ensures dry needling and cupping therapy are applied safely and effectively. Treatment is delivered in a calm and professional environment, with clear communication throughout the session.

Dry needling may produce a brief twitch response in the muscle, followed by a sense of release. Cupping may feel like a gentle pulling or pressure sensation. Most patients tolerate both treatments well and report improved movement and reduced tension following care.

Why Choose Radiant Chiropractic for Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy?

At Radiant Chiropractic, dry needling and cupping therapy are never used as routine or standalone treatments. Each session is guided by clinical assessment and integrated into a broader care plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises, and patient education.

Our clinic is located in Canterbury and supports patients from surrounding Eastern Melbourne suburbs including Surrey Hills, Camberwell, Balwyn, and Hawthorn. Care is delivered with a strong focus on safety, comfort, and long term outcomes rather than short term symptom relief.


Your Path to Radiant Health Starts Here

Whether you’re struggling with persistent discomfort or simply want to maintain your spinal health and wellbeing, we’re here to help you feel and function your best—without the stress, fluff, or pressure.

We invite you to experience the Radiant difference: chiropractic care that’s evidence-informed, genuinely caring, and built for real life.

Book your first consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more radiant you.

Opening Hours