“Dry needling, is that like acupuncture?”

This has got to be the most commonly asked question about dry needling, so here are some facts to help understand the differences between the two.

The similarity…

The similarity between dry needling and acupuncture is the tool, or the needle. However, the needles are used in different ways and for different purposes.

The differences…

The evaluation:

• Acupuncture utilizes examination of tongue and pulse.
• Dry needling evaluation is based on subjective and objective examination of the neuromuscular system.

The application:

• Acupuncture needle insertion points are founded in knowledge of meridians.
• Needle insertion points for dry needling are based on assessment and knowledge of neuroanatomy.

The goal:

• The goal of acupuncture is to promote and restore the ‘qi’ or energy in the body.
• Dry needling is used to help stimulate the healing process of soft tissues such as muscle “trigger points”, fascia, tendons and ligaments.

This results in pain relief and the restoration of a healthy physiology.