Karl Anderson
It’s been a long road to North America, one that we couldn’t have done without the support and insight from our patients, practitioners, partners, educators, friends and family.
Here’s how the journey started: Upon graduating from Victoria University in 2006, some of my fellow students were setting up a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice in inner city Melbourne. These were exciting times as we all ventured out to follow our dreams after five years of studies. As with most recent graduates, we spent our days thinking about how we can make things better. As it turns out, one of those times, became my “Ah-ha moment.” I wanted to bring to market better quality needles and products at fair prices</ span>
The Importance of Educators
This vision would surely allow Red Coral to penetrate the Australian market, yet being the small, new kid on the block proved challenging at times. Our market strategy back then and now is to partner with highly skilled educators. This allows us to have a better understanding of the industry as a whole as well as help educate the industry needs and to educate the students on the importance of quality needles in Dry Needling and Acupuncture.
The World’s First Dry Needle: A Journey of Innovation and Collaboration
Being a part of the dynamic dry needling and acupuncture industry remains the heart of Red Coral. Let’s rewind to where it all began – a pivotal conversation at the offices of Mr. Andrew Gallagher, Director of the Myofascial Pain Study Centre in Melbourne.
In 2009, my introduction to Andrew came through Graham Strong, Managing Director of one of our Victorian distribution partners. Their connection from Med School laid the foundation for a transformative collaboration. A phone call from Andrew led me to the Myofascial Pain Study Centre, where an extraordinary opportunity awaited.
Andrew and I delved into discussions about the Australian and international dry needling industries. It became evident that western modalities, employing dry needling as a pain management solution, were using acupuncture needles. As physiotherapists, a distinct tool was needed. Our brainstorming identified key differentiators:
- Thicker handles for enhanced dexterity in dry needling practices
- Superior materials suited for myofascial needling
- A product designed to create a nearly pain-free experience for patients while optimising clinician outcomes
- A unique product name setting it apart from traditional acupuncture needles
And there it was – the birth of “Myotech,” a name that resonated with our vision for an industry-specific dry needle.
The journey continued in China, where finding a factory willing to bring our vision to life proved challenging. After exploring more than seven manufacturers, we finally secured a partnership. The years 2010-2012 saw numerous flights to Shanghai and persistent challenges, but the result was a prototype that embodied our vision:
- A thicker aluminium-tubed handle
- German surgical stainless steel
- Parylene coating using Green Chemistry for lubrication
- A product name that instantly connected with practitioners using dry needling techniques involving myofascial manipulation
Returning to Australia with the prototype in hand, anticipation filled the air. In January 2013, the Myotech Dry Needle made its debut, revolutionising courses taught by Jorgen Forsberg. This ground breaking product, specifically crafted for dry needling, trigger point therapy, myotherapy, and deep tissue stimulation, firmly established Red Coral’s position in the industry.
Collaborating with visionaries like Andrew Gallagher and Jorgen Forsberg, we birthed the Myotech Dry Needle, the world’s first of its kind. Crafted from evidence-based techniques, this milestone was achieved through a joint venture partnership with a German manufacturer, utilising high-grade German steel.
Today, Myotech products are making waves in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the United States, and the European Union. Red Coral’s commitment to innovation and collaboration continues to shape the future of the industry.
Pioneering with Passion
Today, Red Coral stands as the only Australian company producing all needles with high-grade German steel. Our journey is marked by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless passion for providing top-notch products to the industry. Thank you for being a part of our pioneering adventure!
Buy Premium Dry Needling Needles
Stronger, longer, manufactured with German surgical stainless steel and featuring a Parylene coating. Our needles are easier to handle, get the right application depth, and virtually pain free.