Dry Needling vs Acupuncture: Are They the Same Thing

At first glance, dry needling and acupuncture may seem like they are exactly the same treatments. They both use thin, stainless steel needles that are inserted into the skin. On top of that, both are used to address pain.

While you are correct to believe that these practices are similar in these ways, each practice also has unique qualities that starkly differentiates them from the other. If you are dealing with pain and are interested in these two methods, it’s a smart idea to educate yourself on their differences.

To help you determine the appropriate practice for you, we will be discussing dry needling and acupuncture in detail.

What Is Dry Needling?

This is a modern treatment that is used to ease muscular pain. The process involves inserting filiform needles into your skin. These needles do not inject any fluid into your body, which is why this practice came to be called “dry.”

It’s also worth noting this method targets “trigger points” in your muscle or tissue, or those areas of knotted or hard muscle. Placing the needles in these areas helps release the knot and relieve any muscle pain or spasm.

What Are the Benefits of Dry Needling?

Needling treatment is commonly used by physical and sports injury therapists to help athletes get back to their peak condition. It also helps them improve their flexibility and increase their range of motion.

However, people of all ages and levels of athleticism can use dry needling to get relief for muscular pain and stiffness. Dry needling addresses sciatic nerve pain and other injuries effectively to get you back on your feet and enjoying your activities. 

What Is Acupuncture?

While dry needling is a modern treatment, acupuncture is the complete opposite. The practice of acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and originated in Chinese medical practices. It is for this reason that the term "Traditional Chinese Medicine" is often used to classify acupuncture.

What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture?

While dry needling works directly on areas related to your pain, acupuncture seeks to remove those that block chi—the energy current that provides your body with healing. Furthermore, it aims to return your energy flow to a state of balance.

While acupuncture is also used to treat isolated pain, it can bring relief for diffuse forms of discomfort, such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Addiction and chemical dependency

Choosing Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

It all comes down to your preference, and the conditions for which you are seeking treatment, when it comes to which option you should go with. You should also consult with a physician who can evaluate your condition to make sure the treatment you select is the right fit. As a newly developed and heavily studied treatment, dry needling currently offers distinct advantages. For example, dry needling has been found to be more effective when it comes to reducing pain and mobility issues linked to osteoarthritis.

If you are experiencing pain and are interested in exploring new and modern ways to find relief, choosing dry needling is your best bet. Make sure to go with certified dry needling practitioners—they follow the best needle practices and have undergone extensive training to provide the best care for you.

Dry Needling Experts in Jacksonville, FL

If you are keen on experiencing needling treatment in Jacksonville, FL but do not know who to approach, look no further! Dr. Chanatry is a licensed chiropractor providing expert dry needling services in the area. Get in touch today to schedule your appointment!