Acupuncture vs dry needling: Both involve using thin needles inserted into the skin, but their origins, techniques, and intended purposes differ.
This blog explores the critical differences between dry needling and acupuncture, their benefits and risks, and how to choose the correct procedure.
What is dry needling?
Origins and techniques
Dry needling is a modern form of therapy developed in the Western medical tradition, which involves using thin needles into the skin and underlying tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc.) to alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing. The term “dry needling” refers to the procedure not involving injecting any medications.
The dry needling technique is based on anatomy, physiology, and neurology knowledge. It aims to target “trigger points,” areas of hyperirritability in muscles or connective tissues that can cause pain, stiffness, and dysfunction. By stimulating these points with needles, the therapist aims to release the tension, increase blood flow and oxygenation, and trigger the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Indications and benefits
Dry needling treats the back, neck, shoulders, headaches, and sports injuries. It may also treat fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Some of the potential benefits of dry needling include:
Pain relief: Dry needling can alleviate pain and improve function by reducing muscle tension and inflammation.
Increased range of motion: By releasing tight muscles and restoring joint mobility, dry needling can enhance flexibility and range of motion.
Improved circulation: Dry needling can help tissue healing by increasing blood flow.
Risks and contraindications
Dry needling carries risks and potential side effects like any medical intervention. These may include:
Soreness or bruising at the site of needling
Muscle twitching or spasms
Dizziness or fainting
Infection or bleeding (rare)
Dry needling is safe, but precautions are taken:
Pregnancy
Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy
Allergy to metals or latex
Local infections or skin conditions
It’s essential to consult a qualified practitioner and inform them of any medical conditions, medications, or allergies before undergoing dry needling.
What is acupuncture?
Origins and techniques
Acupuncture has a history of a few thousand years. The technique is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, which view the body as a complex network of channels or meridians through which the vital energy (Qi) flows.
According to TCM theory, illness, and pain are caused by blockages or imbalances in the flow of Qi, and acupuncture aims to restore the balance and harmony of the body by stimulating the appropriate acupoints. Acupuncture may also involve using other modalities, such as cupping, moxibustion, and herbal remedies.
Indications and benefits
Acupuncture is used for the treatment of all kinds of pain issues as well as a wide range of other conditions, such as:
Anxiety and depression
Insomnia and sleep disorders
Digestive disorders
Respiratory disorders
Women’s health issues
Neurological disorders
Some of the potential benefits of acupuncture include:
Pain relief: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins and other natural painkillers, reducing pain and inflammation.
Stress reduction: Acupuncture can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety.
Improved sleep: Acupuncture can regulate the sleep-wake cycle and enhance sleep quality.
Enhanced immune function: Acupuncture can also boost the immune system.
Risks and contraindications
Acupuncture is safe and effective. However, there are some risks and potential side effects, such as:
Soreness or bruising at the site of needling
Fainting or dizziness
Infection or bleeding (rare)
Some contraindications and precautions to consider before undergoing acupuncture may include:
Pregnancy
Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy
Pacemaker or other implanted devices
Allergy to metals or latex
It’s essential to consult a licensed acupuncturist and inform them of any medical conditions, medications, or allergies before undergoing acupuncture.
Dry needling vs acupuncture: What are the differences?
While both dry needling and acupuncture involve using thin needles inserted into the skin, their underlying philosophies, goals, techniques, and indications are distinct.
The following are some of the critical differences between dry needling and acupuncture:
Philosophical and cultural background
Dry needling is a modern technique developed in the Western medical tradition, which is based on the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and neurology. It aims to release trigger points and alleviate musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
Acupuncture, on the other hand, is a traditional form of therapy developed in China over 2,000 years ago, which is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It aims to restore the balance and harmony of the body by stimulating the appropriate acupoints and regulating the flow of Qi.
Goals and outcomes
Dry needling aims to reduce pain and muscle tension, promote healing, and restore function in the musculoskeletal system. It is used to treat musculoskeletal pains in different areas of the body.
Acupuncture aims to restore the balance and harmony of the body, mind, and spirit and promote overall health and well-being. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, from pain and stress to digestive and respiratory disorders.
Treatment areas and techniques
Dry needling targets specific trigger points in the muscles and connective tissues of the body, which are identified based on the patient’s symptoms and physical examination. The needles are inserted directly into trigger points and may be manipulated or stimulated to release the tension and restore normal function.
Acupuncture, on the other hand, involves the insertion of needles into specific acupoints located along the meridians or channels of the body, which are selected based on the patient’s TCM diagnosis. The needles may be stimulated by twisting, heating, or electrically pulsing them to regulate the flow of Qi and restore balance.
Legal and regulatory status
Dry needling is a relatively new technique that is not regulated in all states in the United States. Some states require additional training and certification for licensed physical therapists or chiropractors to perform dry needling, while others prohibit it altogether.
Acupuncture is held to higher standards of safety and efficacy.
Which one is right for you?
When choosing between dry needling and acupuncture, it’s important to consider your specific needs, goals, and preferences, as well as the qualifications and experience of the practitioner.
Suppose you seek relief from musculoskeletal pain or tension and prefer a Western medical approach focusing on trigger points and anatomy. In that case, dry needling may be a good choice for you. However, acupuncture may be a better fit if you’re looking for a holistic approach that addresses the underlying imbalances and promotes overall health and well-being.
It’s essential to choose a qualified and licensed practitioner with experience and expertise in the selected technique and who can tailor the treatment to your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Other methods to help ease pain:
- Prolozone therapy
- Red light therapy bed NovoThor
Dry needling and acupuncture are two distinct techniques that involve using thin needles inserted into the skin but differ in their philosophical and cultural background, goals and outcomes, treatment areas and procedures, and legal and regulatory status.
Both dry needling and acupuncture have potential benefits for the treatment of pain, tension, and a wide range of other conditions. Still, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences, as well as the practitioner’s qualifications and experience.
FAQs
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture are two distinct techniques that differ in their underlying philosophy, goals, and techniques.
Is dry needling a painful procedure?
Dry needling may cause some discomfort or soreness at the needling site, but it is generally well-tolerated and not considered painful.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is considered safe and effective.
How many acupuncture sessions do I need?
At Lifewell MD, we usually achieve results within one or two sessions.
Can dry needling or acupuncture help with migraines?
Dry needling and acupuncture are effective for treating migraines and headaches, but the choice depends on the individual case and preference. It’s essential to consult a qualified practitioner and discuss your options.
Citations:
Dommerholt, J. (2011). Dry needling – peripheral and central considerations. Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy, 19(4), 223-237. doi:10.1179/106698111X13129729552030
White, A., Cummings, M., & Filshie, J. (2016). An introduction to Western medical acupuncture (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2020, February). Acupuncture: In-depth. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-in-depth
American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. (n.d.). Acupuncture licensure requirements by state. Retrieved fromhttps://www.aaaom.edu/acupuncture-licensure-requirements-by-state
Cummings, T. M., & White, A. R. (2001). Needling therapies in managing myofascial trigger point pain: A systematic review. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 82(7), 986-992. doi:10.1053/apmr.2001.24023
Kim, J. I., Lee, M. S., Lee, D. H., Boddy, K., & Ernst, E. (2010). Acupuncture for the treatment of migraine: A systematic review. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 11(5), 431-437. doi:10.1007/s10194-010-0233-0
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p style=”white-space: pre-wrap;”>We understand that pain can be debilitating and greatly affect your quality of life. That’s why we’re here to help! If you or a loved one is dealing with any kind of pain issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 561 210-9999. Dr. Kumar is a Harvard Medical School Certified Acupuncturist and is dedicated to providing quick pain control with the least number of visits, so you can get back to enjoying the things you love. Let us help you find relief and start living your best life today!
