What is the difference between acupuncture and Dry Needling?

While acupuncture and dry needling both have several things in common, there are several distinct differences.

What is the difference between acupuncture and Dry Needling?

While both use thin, solid needles to address pain, acupuncture and dry needling are distinct procedures with different origins, philosophies, and applications. Acupuncture is rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, focusing on holistic health, while dry needling is based on modern Western medicine and treats musculoskeletal issues.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is based on the philosophy of Qi, which is the energy that flows throughout the body. Needles are inserted into specific parts of the body to balance the energy in the Qi energy channels. Restoring health and reducing pain. Acupuncture is effective in conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, low back pain, hip pain, and knee pain. As well as treating conditions such as anxiety and stress, insomnia, allergies, and infertility.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling uses acupuncture needles to target specific pain patterns, often by inserting them into muscle knots known as trigger points. Techniques vary: some approaches leave the needle in briefly; others withdraw it quickly. Practitioners look for a twitch response, where the muscle spasms, indicating they have reached the core of the trigger point. Dry needling may also be used to treat conditions like tendinitis by stimulating healthy tissue growth.

Which one should you do?

Dry needling is usually preferred for musculoskeletal issues, especially recent conditions like back pain or headaches. Acupuncture and dry needling can also be done at the same time. As well as in conjunction with other treatments such as chiropractic care, exercise, fire cupping, interferential current, ultrasound, and low-level laser.