Dry needling and acupuncture are two treatments that use fine needles and can be used to manage pain and improve wellbeing. Although they may look similar, they differ in their origins, techniques and treatment goals. Understanding these differences can help you decide which approach may be suitable for your needs.
If you are searching for dry needling in Corsham or Chippenham, this guide from chiropractor Chloe Phelps at The Ashfield Practice explains how dry needling differs from acupuncture and when each approach may be considered.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is commonly used by healthcare professionals like chiropractors and osteopaths, to manage musculoskeletal pain and injuries.
The treatment involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific areas of muscle, often targeting sensitive areas known as trigger points. These areas can be associated with muscle tenderness, tension and referred pain.
Dry needling aims to influence pain responses, reduce muscle discomfort and improve movement. It can be used as part of a treatment plan to help manage a wide variety of conditions such as neck pain, lower back pain and some sports injuries.
At The Ashfield Practice in Neston, Corsham, Chloe may use dry needling alongside chiropractic treatment, soft tissue techniques and rehabilitation advice, depending on the individual.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture originates from traditional Chinese medicine and involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body.
Traditionally, acupuncture is understood through concepts such as qi, also known as vital energy. Modern research has also explored how acupuncture may influence the nervous system and the body's processing of pain.
Acupuncture is commonly used to help manage certain types of pain, including some chronic pain conditions and headaches. Some people also find it relaxing and helpful for managing stress-related symptoms.
However, evidence of effectiveness varies depending on the condition, and results differ from person to person.
What Are the Main Differences?
Although both treatments involve needles, there are several important distinctions.
Treatment approach: Dry needling generally follows a musculoskeletal approach, targeting muscles and tissues associated with symptoms. Acupuncture uses specific acupuncture points selected according to the practitioner's training and treatment approach.
Purpose: Dry needling typically focuses on muscle pain, tenderness and movement limitations. Acupuncture has broader traditional applications and is also used for certain pain conditions and relaxation.
Technique: Dry needling may involve brief needle insertion or movement to stimulate targeted tissue. Acupuncture often involves leaving needles in place for several minutes.
Practitioner training: Dry needling is commonly provided by trained healthcare professionals, while acupuncture may be delivered by practitioners with specialist acupuncture training or suitably trained healthcare professionals.
There can be overlap between the techniques, and neither treatment is guaranteed to work for everyone.
Are They Safe?
Both treatments are generally considered low-risk when performed by appropriately trained practitioners using sterile, single-use needles. However, side effects can include temporary soreness, bruising, minor bleeding or light-headedness.
Does It Hurt?
A common question; this depends on you and the practitioner!
Short answer is that it should not hurt.
Most of the time, most people do not feel anything when the needles are inserted, however, sometimes some people experience a dull ache, which stops as soon as the needle is removed. Everybody is different!
You should not feel pain during a treatment, if you do, tell your practitioner straight away and they should make you feel more comfortable!
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The best option depends on your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals.
Dry needling may be worth considering if you are experiencing muscle-related pain or movement difficulties. Acupuncture may be suitable if you are looking for an alternative approach to managing certain types of chronic pain.
Final Thoughts
Dry needling and acupuncture share similarities, but their underlying principles and typical applications differ. Dry needling focuses primarily on musculoskeletal problems, while acupuncture has roots in traditional Chinese medicine and is also used in modern pain management.
Ultimately, the right treatment depends on your individual needs.
Dry Needling in Corsham and Chippenham
If you would like to find out whether dry needling could be suitable for your muscle pain, restricted movement or sports injury, book an initial chiropractic consultation with Chloe Phelps at The Ashfield Practice in Neston, Corsham. Chloe will assess your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals before discussing the most appropriate options with you.
