Difference Between Acupuncture And Dry Needling
Let’s break it down
1.Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) modality.
It works with the meridians or energy (chi) channels across the body. Acupuncture has been
around for thousands of years!
2. Dry needling quickly gained popularity in the last decade.
Whereas acupuncturists must train for 3-4 years, dry needling practitioners attend training that
varies in length.
If you’re looking to “release that tight knot” in your shoulder
➡
dry needling will target that spot
directly. This technique is used widely in chiropractic and physical therapy offices.
If you’re looking for a holistic and energy balancing experience that will assist your nervous
system
⤵
Then acupuncture is what you’re looking for!
Both are wonderful options to improve your health goals, and knowing the difference between
the two, may help you decide which modality to use.
.
Acupuncture and dry needling
Acupuncture and dry needling are two distinct therapeutic techniques that involve the insertion
of thin needles into the skin, but they differ in their origins, principles, and applications.
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice with a history of thousands of years, is
founded on the concept of Qi, an energy that flows through meridians in the body. By inserting
needles at specific points along these meridians, acupuncturists aim to rebalance the flow of Qi,
addressing a wide array of conditions like pain, digestive issues, and emotional imbalances.
Dry needling, in contrast, is a modern technique based on Western anatomical and
neurophysiological principles. It targets trigger points—hyperirritable spots in muscles
associated with pain and dysfunction—by inserting needles to release muscle tension and
improve range of motion. It is commonly used to manage musculoskeletal issues such as
chronic pain, muscle strains, and headaches.
In essence, while both acupuncture and dry needling use needles for therapeutic purposes,
acupuncture is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and seeks to balance Qi flow,
while dry needling focuses on releasing muscle tension and enhancing physical function based
on Western anatomical concepts.
Dry needling service by RhythmChiropractic
Rhythm Chiropractic offers a range of services and dry needling services is one of them,
designed to enhance your overall health and well-being. Dr. Emily Burgess is skilled in dry
needling, a Western approach that focuses on targeting trigger points in muscles to relieve pain
and enhance mobility. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain or aiming to improve your
quality of life, our dry needling services are tailored to meet your needs and support your
journey to optimal health.