Acupuncture and dry needling are both therapeutic techniques that involve the insertion of thin needles into the body, but they have distinct differences in terms of their underlying principles, origins, and applications.

Dry Needling

Dry needling is a more recent technique that emerged in Western medicine and is not rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Dry needling is based on the understanding of myofascial trigger points, which are tight knots of muscle fibres that can contribute to pain and dysfunction. The primary goal is to release these trigger points and alleviate musculoskeletal pain. Dry needling is primarily used for musculoskeletal issues, such as relieving muscle pain, improving range of motion and addressing neuromuscular dysfunction.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that dates back thousands of years. It is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture is based on the concept of balancing the flow of energy, or qi, along meridians (energy pathways) in the body. The goal is to promote harmony and balance within the body’s energy system.

Acupuncture & dry needling are used in conjunction with other modalities to treat musculoskeletal injuries that present to the clinic.