Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture: They Are Not the Same Thing

Dry needling and acupuncture may look like the same therapy, as they both utilize thin needs that are placed into the skin. But these two treatments are vastly different in purpose. Once you understand the difference between them, you can make the decision on which one could be helpful in your Chiropractic journey. 

Dry Needling 

The treatment is often used to help with muscle aches, trigger points, tendonitis, and any tightness due to restriction. 

A licensed professional inserts the needs into the affected soft tissue region, with or without electrical stimulation. 

When electrical stimulation is applied, the goal is to amplify muscle relaxation and increase blood flow to the area. The needle can also be inserted without any electricity, which simply allows the needle to work independently to release knots and fascial restriction. 

Acupuncture

This treatment has been around for centuries and is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. 

Acupuncture, similar to dry needling, also involves inserting needles into specific points of the body to treat different illnesses. The points of insertion are intended to open pathways in the body, called meridians. Energy or life force, called “chi” flow through these pathways and open them up. It is understood that sickness occurs when these pathways are blocked.  

There are also more Westernized practices of acupuncture which focuses on the nervous system and the physical changes in pain. 

What is the Difference Between the Two?

Both therapies use thin needles that are inserted into the skin, the reasons for use and areas they are on are what make the two different. 

Dry needling is most often used for muscle and soft tissues conditions. The Chiropractor, or other licensed professionals, will palpate and examine the regions in which there is tenderness, pain, or limited motion, and use their knowledge of the anatomy as a direction of where to place the needles into the skin. 

Acupuncture was founded from traditional Chinese medicine. Instead of using the anatomy to place the needles, acupuncture points are used as a reference for placement. This therapy is utilized to treat health conditions and a broader array of symptoms. 

Dry Needling and Chiropractic Care 

Chiropractic typically focuses on the nervous system and improving motion and function of the joints. However, the soft tissue sounding the joints play a key role in how well they can move. 

When muscles begin to compensate for poor movement, pain can arise and lead to chronic pain in the area over time. 

Chiropractic and dry needling work well together because if a joint is not moving well, it can affect the muscles surrounding it. Adjustments help to achieve better movement in those joints and dry needling can work to release the trigger points that have developed because of that lack in movement. 

Dry Needling Safety 

This therapy must be performed by a licensed health care professional who was properly trained in each section of the body.  Dry needling is considered to be well tolerated by most and has a low risk to patients. 

There are some possible side effects such as, soreness, bruising, and bleeding of the area. 

A proper examination and review of any medical history should be performed to determine if this therapy is an appropriate choice for you. 

Should You Consider Dry Needling?

If you are someone who has been dealing with frequent knots in your muscles, pain that keeps coming back, or a noticeable change in how you move, dry needling is likely a good addition to your Chiropractic journey. 

At Carpe Diem Chiropractic, we don’t just evaluate the area of complaint, we look at the entire body as a whole and analyze your movement patterns. It is important to see the whole picture in order to tailor an appropriate treatment plan.