A lot of people are asking about the difference between dry needling & acupuncture. It is a hot topic, and important to distinguish between the two, especially if you are considering treatment.
Both acupuncture and dry needling focus on the use of needles to provide relief from pain or discomfort, but that is where the similarities end.
At Precision Healing And Wellness, our services include licensed acupuncture and massage. Physical therapists are the most likely source for dry needling.
A Quick Overview of Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture
- Dry needling is a relatively new treatment option, originating in the 1980’s and based on Western science and philosophy.
- Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that has been in use for centuries, and is based on Eastern science and philosophy.
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- Dry needling targets specific muscles and tissue that may be the source of your pain.
- Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to pain relief by opening blocked pathways in your body to healing energy.
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- Dry needling is usually delivered by a physical or sports therapist, and requires no specific certification or oversight.
- Acupuncture is delivered by practitioners who have earned certification and licensure through rigorous training and oversight.
The Ancient Art of Holistic Acupuncture
At Precision Healing And Wellness, we are licensed in the use of acupuncture with specialties in the relief of pain, headaches and migraines, anxiety, stress, and infertility. Acupuncture seeks to rebalance your body’s energy for health and wellness. We use the gentle application of needles in designated points on the body, to open pathways of energy that are otherwise blocked. These open pathways allow for the body’s natural delivery of healing nutrients and energy to treat the source of your pain, anxiety, stress, or infertility.
Our training involves both diagnosing conditions, and the use of needles in treatment. To become licensed, an acupuncturist must first receive certification by a national board of examiners.
Scientific Evidence Behind Acupuncture
Because acupuncture therapy has been used for thousands of years, there is significant scientific study on its healing benefits. The American Medical Association (AMA) considers acupuncture a medical treatment. Some insurance companies cover the cost of acupuncture.
The Modern Therapy of Dry Needling
Dry needling is considered a modern treatment that is used to ease muscular or tissue pain. It is also referred to as trigger point therapy or intramuscular stimulation. Practitioners place needles in “trigger points” of knotted muscle or tissue. The needle will stimulate the area, releasing the knots, and relieving the associated pain.
Dry needling is most often delivered by a physical therapist or chiropractor. Currently, there is no standard of testing, or a credentialing board to establish a professional is ready to deliver dry needling.
Scientific Evidence Behind Dry Needling
The origin of dry needling dates to the early 1980’s. Because of its relatively short existence, there is a lack of scientific evidence related to long term benefits of dry needling. At the same time, there is a surge of interest in dry needling and the outcomes of treatment will continue to be evaluated. The AMA has called for regulation of dry needling similar to standards already established for acupuncture.
What to Consider When Making a Decision
The bottom line on dry needling and acupuncture is yours to make. Both are available and used to treat pain and other conditions. Acupuncture is a time tested Eastern medicine, with considerable oversight. Dry needling is a modern Western approach, with no oversight, yet many physical therapists are confident in its use.
To make the best decision for you, continue to research the topic as it pertains to your condition, and look into specific clinics for delivery of treatment. An in-person meeting with the delivering practitioner will help you make an informed decision. Look for someone who listens patiently, is compassionate to your needs, and experienced in the treatment you are considering.
We Offer a Free Consultation for Acupuncture
At Precision Healing And Wellness it is important to us that you are comfortable with your choices, and feel confident in the process. To achieve this, we offer a free first consultation, treatment, and insurance verification. Our practitioners will also consult with your current healthcare providers, from your doctor, to physical therapist, to chiropractor, for your best outcome.
Contact Us
Precision Healing And Wellness, is your refuge from anxiety, stress, pain, and discomfort. We also specialize in the use of acupuncture and massage to treat headaches, migraines and infertility.
Give us a call at (262) 439-8019, drop us an email or book your appointment online. Our practice is located in Brookfield, conveniently off of I-94 and just minutes from downtown Milwaukee.
