What is the difference between dry needling and accupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture are both therapeutic techniques that involve the use of fine needles getting inserted into the body. That is where the similarities end. Both practices have been shown to offer significant relief from musculoskeletal complaints. Understanding their differences will help make a better-informed decision as to what might be the best treatment for you. At Body & Soul Chiropractic we are experts in dry needling.
Origins and philosophies
- Acupuncture’s roots come from traditional Chinese medicine, a practice that has been around for over 2500 years. It is based on restoring balance, or “Qi” (pronounced chee) to the body’s energy flow. According to Chinese medicine energy flows through meridian channels in the body. If there is blockage within these energy flows, it leads to sickness, illness and pain. Acupuncturists insert needles into specific points along meridian lines to restore harmony.
- Dry needling is a relatively new western medicine technique. Its foundation is anatomical and neurological science, mainly focusing on the musculoskeletal system. Dry needling targets trigger points, which are tight knots within muscle bellies. The goal is to release tension, improve blood flow and alleviate pain by relaxing the muscle.
Technique and approach
- In Acupuncture, needles are inserted into specific points along the meridians. These points correspond to different organs which affect bodily functions and energy flow. The depth of needle insertion is relatively shallow. Needles may be left for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Dry Needling involves insertion of the needles directly into the trigger point within the muscle belly. The practitioner may manipulate the needle in order to elicit a “twitch response” from the muscle. The technique focusses on treating local pain and dysfunction rather than addressing systemic issues.
Purupose and conditions treated
- Acupuncture is for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, migraines, digestive issues, stress, and sleep disorders. Because acupuncture is used to balance the body’s energy, it is often applied to holistically treat both physical and emotional imbalances.
- Dry needling is primarily used to treat musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain. Conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, muscle tightness, sports injuries and joint dysfunction are commonly treated with dry needling. Dry needling is often used as an adjunct therapy to other treatments such as Chiropractic.
Sensation and experience
- Patients often report different sensations with the two treatments. Acupuncture is usually mild and described as gentle pressure or tingling. The needles are usually not manipulated after insertion, and treatment is designed to be relaxing.
- Dry needling is generally more of an intense sensation, especially when the twitch response is elicited. Patients may experience a cramping or deep ache at the site that the needle is inserted. This sensation can result in significant relief of tight muscles and trigger points.
Training and regulation
- Acupuncturists undergo specific training in Chinese medicine and must be licensed to practice. The education involves many years of study in both acupuncture theory and practice, as well as herbal medicine, and nutrition.
- Dry needling is typically performed by other therapists that have training in other healthcare practices such as chiropractic, physiotherapy or general practitioners. The training focuses on anatomy, pain science, and neurophysiology behind trigger point therapy. Dy needling is usually integrated into and practitioners existing skillset and used as adjunctive treatment.
Conclusion
- Dry needling and acupuncture both use the insertion of small needles to alleviate pain. Both techniques differ greatly in treatment approach, purpose and underlying philosophy. Both methods have their own strengths. Choosing the right treatment depends on the patient’s goals.
- If you’re curios about whether dry needling could benefit you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Body & Soul Chiropractic and we can determine what is the best approach for your needs.