Have you ever woken up feeling stiff and achy? Or perhaps you’re dealing with chronic pain that just won’t go away. Many people turn to physical therapy to find relief, which uses a combination of techniques to address pain and improve mobility. Two possible techniques are acupuncture and dry needling.
But how do you know which one is right for you? Understanding the differences between dry needling and acupuncture can help you make an informed decision.
Dry needling: Targeting muscle knots
Dry needling is a technique used by a certified practitioner, like a physical therapist, to help relieve pain and improve muscle function. During a session, the physical therapist manually inserts thin, sterile needles into tight, knotted areas of the muscles called trigger points. These trigger points can cause pain that radiates to other parts of the body. The goal of dry needling is to deactivate these trigger points, relieving pain and restoring normal muscle function.
Here’s a closer look at how dry needling works:
- Trigger points — These are sensitive spots in muscles that cause pain, tightness and weakness. They can develop due to:
- Repetitive strain
- Injury
- Poor posture
- Neuromuscular response — Inserting a needle into a trigger point helps stimulate the nervous system. This stimulation causes a local twitch response, which can help relax the muscle fibers and reduce pain signals sent to the brain.
- Blood flow — The needle can trigger an inflammatory response, increasing blood flow to the area. This can help promote healing and reduce inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
Dry needling can be effective for a variety of conditions, including:
- Neck pain
- Chronic back pain
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Headaches and migraines
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Hip pain
Dry needling offers several benefits, including:
- Pain relief
- Mobility improvement
- Circulation boost
- Muscle soreness reduction
- Athletic performance enhancement
- Stress reduction
Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese medicine
Acupuncture, with a history spanning thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is based on the concept of “qi.” Qi is a vital energy that flows through channels in the body called meridians. When this energy flow is disrupted, it’s believed to cause pain and other health issues. Trained acupuncturists insert needles at specific points along these meridians to help restore balance and promote healing.
Key principles of acupuncture include:
- Yin and yang — Yin and yang are opposing yet complementary forces within the body. Imbalances between them are thought to contribute to illness.
- Five elements — Wood, fire, earth, metal and water correspond to different organs and body functions. Acupuncture aims to harmonize these elements.
- Meridians — Meridians are invisible channels through which qi flows. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians.
Acupuncture can address a variety of conditions, including:
- Chronic pain
- Stress and anxiety
- Digestive issues
- Insomnia
- Allergies and respiratory issues
- Menstrual problems
- Migraines and headaches
Acupuncture provides numerous benefits, such as:
- Pain management
- Stress management
- Speed improvement
- Digestion enhancement
- Immunity boost
- Energy increase
Key differences between dry needling and acupuncture
Though both therapeutic techniques use needles, they have key differences:
- Theoretical foundation — Dry needling is based on Western science and focuses on specific trigger points in muscles. Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and aims to help restore balance in the body’s energy flow.
- Purpose of treatment — Dry needling helps address musculoskeletal issues like muscle tightness, knots and pain. It can be used with physical therapy or chiropractic treatments. Acupuncture can help with a wide range of issues, including physical, emotional and mental health problems. It aims to help balance the body’s energy system.
- Needles and techniques — Dry needling uses thin, sterile needles inserted quickly and sometimes withdrawn just as fast, often aiming for a local twitch response. It can also be combined with physical therapy techniques like manual therapy or therapeutic exercises. Acupuncture involves more needles inserted at various depths and left in place for longer periods. It may also use techniques like heat or electrical stimulation.
Finding dry needling or acupuncture near you
If you think dry needling or acupuncture may be right for you, consider these tips to find a qualified practitioner:
- Consult your doctor.
- Look for qualified practitioners by checking for certifications or licenses.
- Ask questions about the practitioner’s experience and approach.
- Check session costs and if they accept your insurance.
- Verify safety protocols
Understanding the differences between dry needling and acupuncture, along with their benefits and suitable conditions, can help you make an informed choice. Explore your options, talk to your doctor and take steps toward better well-being.
Trust your path to pain relief to REPAIR SI
At REPAIR SI, we believe in providing compassionate and personalized treatment plans tailored to meet your specific needs and concerns. We have certified practitioners who can offer dry needling or acupuncture for a comprehensive approach to pain management and rehabilitation. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries or other conditions, we’re committed to helping you achieve your optimal health goals. Let us assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.