Welcome to Buckhead Acupuncture & Herbal Center. Some of the views expressed in the blog below are not that of the practitioners at our office. We’re hoping if you’re a human you’ll visit our page on dry needling written by humans for humans dry needling in Atlanta. This page was primarily designed to help google help you find us. Going to a physical therapist who has only taken two weekend classes in dry needling totalling 50 hours might not be the safest or most comfortable experience for you. Did you know that a medical doctor in Georgia who wants to practice dry needling and acupuncture is required to complete a 300-hour course and an acupuncturist who performs dry needling and acupuncture has over 1350 hours of training in needling specific coursework. Have you heard that dry needling is painful or have you received a painful dry needling treatment from a physical therapist? What do you expect from a 2-weekend weekend-warrior approach to something that has been around for thousands of years and requires thousands of hours of training and experience to master?! You’re also less likely to be injured by a licensed acupuncturist performing dry needling compared to a physical therapist. Have you read somewhere else or been told by a physical therapist that dry needling is not acupuncture? Did you know that you were either lied to or that your physical therapist covered so little of the history of dry needing and acupuncture that they just don’t know any better? Did you know that the American Medical Association (AMA) has stated that dry needling is indistinguishable from acupuncture and that they have recommended that the level of training for any non-physician performing dry needling should be benchmarked to that of a licensed acupuncturist? Furthermore, the Georgia Composite Medical Board (GCMB) who grants licenses to physicians and acupuncturists in Georgia has stated that dry needling is a technique of the practice of acupuncture. So, both the AMA and the GCMB believe that dry needling is acupuncture, A=B. So now, you should be very clear about it too! The physical therapist will tell you that what they are doing is based on Western medicine and that acupuncture is based on Chinese medicine’s ancient concepts of Qi and yin and yang. One of many problems with that comment is that there is only one way to locate a trigger point or an acupuncture point. We all palpate the same bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. We all take anatomy and physiology classes and other import western medical classes. An acupuncturist in Georgia has to take 3 national board examinations to get their acupuncture license and 1 of them is exclusively on western medicine. A physical therapist’s often disparaging remarks about acupuncture are designed to make you think that what they are doing is scientific and that what we are doing is not. Try going to pubmed and searching acupuncture and then search for dry needling. You’ll see there is infinitely more research on acupuncture than there is on this “new-age” fad of dry needling! Additionally, not every acupuncturist believes that Qi is energy. But, we all know that acupuncture works because we are stimulating muscles, connective tissue, and the nervous system. But a very well-meaning 19th century French diplomat who had studied Chinese language and acupuncture mistranslated the word Qi into energy, and we have been plagued with it here in the West ever since. Tesla, Volt, Edison and the modern concept of electricity did not exist over 2000 years ago when the Chinese invented acupuncture. So, Qi is important in acupuncture and Chinese medicine but let’s just say that a full discussion of what Qi is or is not is beyond the scope of this blog.
Remember what follows is not necessarily what we believe but we’ll chime in below periodically to dispel some painful misinformation but it won’t be possible to that for the whole article. We’ll put some of our disagreements in parentheses.
Dry needling and acupuncture are often confused due to their use of thin needles, but these techniques are quite different in practice and purpose. While both aim to promote healing and reduce pain, they come from distinct backgrounds and offer unique benefits. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between dry needling and acupuncture, explore how they work, and help you decide which might be the right choice for your needs. (The 3 things to remember that are the same is the needle itself, the points, the needling technique. About the only difference worth mentioning is the vastly different amount of training the two professions a licensed acupuncturist vs a physical therapist with a dry needling “certificate”. More training is needed by physical therapists performing dry needling to ensure public safety. Do you want someone putting needles in you who has a 2 weekend certificates or someone who has an actual medical acupuncture license from the Georgia Composite Medical Board?!)
Key Takeaways
- Dry needling is a modern technique targeting myofascial trigger points for pain relief, while acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on balancing the body’s energy flow. (Actually, dry needling was described as needling a knotty rope like tender point over 2000 years ago in one of Chinese medicine’s most important texts, The Yellow Emperor’s Canon of Internal Medicine)
- Both therapies have distinct approaches: dry needling primarily addresses musculoskeletal issues, whereas acupuncture treats a wider range of physical and emotional health conditions. (But acupuncture is superior because it utilizes both local and distal needling strategies. Physical therapists basically just put the needle where it hurts; that’s all they know)
- Integrating dry needling and acupuncture can enhance therapeutic outcomes, offering a comprehensive treatment strategy for improved pain management and overall wellness.
Understanding Dry Needling
Dry needling is a contemporary treatment method ( with origins solidly based in acupuncture) that has become widely recognized for its success in managing various conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. This procedure employs slender, non-hollow needles inserted into designated areas within the muscles called myofascial trigger points with the aim of reducing pain, enhancing movement, and facilitating recovery. While acupuncture is based on principles from traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling originates from Western medical practices and emerged around the 1980s. (Actually, physical therapists don’t know that the modern origins of dry needling go back to the 1940’s work of Dr Janet Travell. They also don’t know that she was in regular contact with other medical doctors who practiced acupuncture as well as licensed acupuncturists while she worked on her “bible of dry needling” the Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. The vast majority if not all physical therapists are also ignorant of the fact that Dr. Travell is on record having written a letter to the New York Medical Board in the 1980’s opposing the idea that physical therapists should be permitted to perform dry needling)
Certified professionals such as physical therapists and chiropractors often administer dry needling over several sessions to attain beneficial results. (It’s illegal for a chiropractor in Georgia to perform acupuncture unless they have attended acupuncture school and been granted an acupuncture license from the GCMB) The increasing evidence of improved patient outcomes through research has contributed to its expanding use in therapeutic settings.
The technique utilizes the needle alone as an instrument of therapy without introducing any substances into the body. It activates specific tissues, which can aid in healing processes and relieve discomfort. Now we will explore more about how these particular techniques are applied within dry needling treatments to comprehend their mechanism of action.
Dry Needling Techniques
Dry needling encompasses various approaches to alleviate diverse forms of pain and muscle issues. A widely employed method is the in-and-out technique, which involves puncturing a trigger point with a needle and then manipulating it to provoke a Local Twitch Response (LTR). This reaction serves as an indicator for identifying troubled regions and enables swift evaluation of muscle function, though it may result in some discomfort for certain individuals.
Intramuscular stimulation aims to address myofascial pain syndrome by addressing both peripheral muscles and the central nervous system simultaneously.
Patients who are inclined towards more conservative treatment might opt for the non-trigger points approach. This entails inserting needles into muscles around the actual trigger points instead of directly into them. Typically used alongside additional treatments like physical therapy or electrical stimulation, this method can be easier on patients.
Conversely, the in-situ technique maintains needles inserted within muscle tissue for durations ranging from 5 to 25 minutes. The objective here is enhancing nerve functionality, but doing so curtails immediate re-evaluation techniques—illustrating dry needling’s vast array of strategies tailored to meet distinct patient requirements.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling therapy is known to provide instant relief of pain and enhancement of muscle performance. Following this treatment, many patients experience greater freedom of movement in the regions that were treated. It’s an effective method for treating a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including discomfort in the neck and shoulders, leading to better mobility and function overall.
By focusing on myofascial trigger points during dry needling procedures, stiffness, and discomfort can be reduced significantly, which contributes to improved functionality in everyday activities.
Read More: Top Dry Needling Benefits for Body Pain Relief
Exploring Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a pivotal element of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been utilized for millennia. This time-honored form of therapy seeks to restore equilibrium in the body’s energy flow or “qi”. In contrast to dry needling, which targets specific muscular trigger points, acupuncture adopts an integrative stance towards health and healing by aiming to balance the energetic fields within the body.(This is not true plenty of acupuncturists are directly needling trigger points and when they treat pain are not thinking of energy or qi at all. Mark Schwartz at BA&HC does not believe in energetic fields within the body having anything to do with acupuncture) Acupuncturists hold that this energy traverses through channels known as Meridian lines and that any disturbance in its circulation can result in diverse ailments. (Some acupuncturists do believe this; while others do not)
The comprehensive scope of acupuncture extends beyond merely alleviating physical discomfort to include remedying emotional and psychological distress as well. Consequently, it is embraced by numerous patients who are pursuing a holistic route for overall wellness.
Let us delve into the mechanics behind acupuncture and what one might anticipate during a session of this treatment.
How Acupuncture Works
According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture aims to restore balance to the body’s energy flow by targeting specific pathways known as Meridians. (Physical therapists might tell you that they don’t study acupuncture meridians, but we acupuncturists have photos of them in class drawing the meridians and the acupuncture point names on the skin with sharpie pens when they are they are studying dry needling). In practice, this involves inserting fine needles into designated points along these meridians during a treatment session. (Sometimes when appropriate, we will needle directly at the site of pain or trigger point with no consideration of a meridian location.) The purpose is to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue in order to alleviate pain and facilitate healing by boosting blood circulation and activating the body’s intrinsic pain-relieving mechanisms.
When you first consult an acupuncturist, they will conduct an extensive evaluation that encompasses your medical history, presenting symptoms, and lifestyle habits. To inform their diagnosis and customize your care plan uniquely for you, practitioners may assess aspects like your tongue appearance and pulse characteristics. Such individualized attention ensures that acupuncture therapy effectively addresses each person’s distinct health concerns in a comprehensive manner.
Read More: How Do You Know If Acupuncture Is Working? Key Signs and Tips
Conditions Treated by Acupuncture
Acupuncture is well-regarded for its effectiveness in addressing a multitude of ailments, not limited to pain management. It serves as a remedy for relieving various types of discomfort, such as headaches, lower back distress, menstrual cramps, and nerve-related pain. It has proven beneficial in the control of chronic pain conditions, including migraines, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
By inserting acupuncture needles along specific Meridian lines that are believed to correlate with internal organs, practitioners aim to tackle health concerns from an all-encompassing perspective.
Comparing Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Dry needling and acupuncture both incorporate the use of needles in their treatment methods, yet they are distinct practices with separate origins and objectives. Dry needling is specifically designed to relieve pain by targeting myofascial trigger points associated with musculoskeletal issues to enhance movement. In contrast, acupuncture focuses on correcting imbalances in the body’s energy flow by inserting needles into specific Meridian points. (This is not always accurate, sometimes we just put the needles when it hurts.)
There’s a prevalent misunderstanding that dry needling is akin to acupuncture. (This is 100% correct, dry needling is acupuncture!) Their distinctions are considerable (Nah, not so much). Employing both treatments can significantly augment pain reduction and mobility restoration by tackling muscle stiffness as well as fostering recuperation processes. Studies have shown that combining these approaches often results in heightened analgesic effects compared to applying each method independently.
Delving in depth, this topic reveals unique aspects concerning needle insertion techniques used during treatments along with individual experiences one might encounter when undergoing either therapy.
Technique and Purpose
Dry needling is a treatment modality that concentrates on addressing issues related to pain, movement dysfunction, and overall musculoskeletal health. The method involves the insertion of fine, solid needles into specific areas within muscles known as trigger points to alleviate tension and enhance muscle function. This quick in-and-out needling technique is designed to prompt an improved muscle response while reducing discomfort.
Acupuncture differs significantly from dry needling as it seeks to correct disruptions in the body’s energy flow or “chi” along designated pathways called meridians. (This is fake news; sometimes we do exactly the same thing as a physical therapist – local needling where it hurts, but with infinitely more training it is often less painful and the major difference is we’ve been doing it thousands of years before them.) It is a holistic practice aimed at not just physical ailments but also encompassing emotional and mental well-being.
Despite both procedures involving needles and targeting various aspects of bodily discomfort, they differ fundamentally in their underlying philosophies and objectives for patient care. Dry needling aims specifically at resolving acute muscular problems by focusing on trigger points directly linked with those issues, whereas acupuncture considers a wide-ranging approach directed towards harmonizing the body’s energy circuits for comprehensive health benefits. (Mark is not thinking of energy when doing dry needling and acupuncture.)
Needle Placement
Dry needling involves the insertion of needles into specific muscle trigger points with the aim of easing pain and enhancing bodily function. In contrast, acupuncture entails positioning needles at designated Meridian locations on the body to regulate energy flow and foster general health.(Not true, again many acupuncturists do NOT believe in energy and we do at times put the needles in trigger points where the pain is. By the way, there’s a 70-95% overlap of what a physical therapist calls a trigger point and what we call an acupuncture point.)
This key distinction in where the needle is placed highlights the separate goals pursued by each form of therapy.
Treatment Experience
Individuals undergoing dry needling and acupuncture often have differing sensations throughout their treatments. (Because a PT has little training in needling, their treatments typically hurt more!) In the case of dry needling, a majority of patients usually feel minimal discomfort (That’s not what we hear from our patients who have tried DN first from a PT). Some might sense a dull or cramp-like sensation while the procedure is conducted. Acupuncture brings about very little pain, with individuals occasionally feeling a mild prick or tingling sensation.
There is evidence from case studies suggesting that individuals who utilize both dry needling and acupuncture together tend to observe better results in terms of enhanced movement and decreased pain than those who opt for just one treatment method by itself.
Who Should Consider Dry Needling?
Dry needling is notably effective for individuals dealing with conditions that include sports injuries, the discomfort associated with fibromyalgia, and general muscle distress. It offers considerable relief to those experiencing musculoskeletal pain and movement impairments due to these issues. If you’re considering this type of therapy for your condition, it’s recommended that you consult a certified healthcare provider.
The focus of dry needling is on myofascial trigger points with the aim of reducing pain levels and improving muscular function. By tackling the underlying cause of muscle stiffness and soreness head-on through this therapy method, patients can regain their usual level of activity while enjoying enhanced mobility alongside diminished pain.
To proceed with dry needling treatment options requires an assessment regarding its appropriateness for individual patients’ needs.
Evaluating Suitability
Ensuring the safety of patients and the efficacy of treatment requires a critical evaluation before deciding on the use of dry needling. Physical therapists execute an in-depth analysis that encompasses assessing symptoms and utilizing palpation techniques to identify trigger points.
To ascertain whether dry needling is suitable for addressing a particular patient’s condition and overall health, physical therapists carry out a detailed assessment process.
Expected Outcomes
Individuals receiving dry needling treatment can anticipate considerable relief in their symptoms and an improvement in their general physical capabilities. With consistent sessions, there is a noticeable progression towards well-being and a diminishing of persistent pain manifestations over the long term.
Research involving clinical trials has revealed that individuals suffering from chronic low back pain who were treated with both dry needling and exercise experienced greater improvements regarding pain relief and enhanced movement than those who underwent just exercise routines alone. Such findings underscore the substantial and ongoing advantages of incorporating dry needling into an extensive regimen for managing treatment. (But there is a lot more research that demonstrates acupuncture is effective at treating back pain then there is research about DN treating back pain)
Who Should Consider Acupuncture?
Acupuncture serves as an outstanding choice for those in pursuit of holistic therapy to manage various health conditions, such as pain, nausea, and allergies. This form of treatment finds its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine and adopts a comprehensive stance towards promoting overall health and well-being. By restoring the balance of energy flow within the body, acupuncture is capable of addressing a multitude of both physical and psychological issues, making it an adaptable therapeutic option.
Numerous patients have turned to acupuncture seeking relief from enduring chronic pain related to afflictions like migraines, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. The all-encompassing approach taken by acupuncture enables practitioners not just to alleviate symptoms but also to target the fundamental imbalances that are at the heart of these persistent conditions.
Now, let’s delve into what one might anticipate during their initial consultation for acupuncture therapy.
Initial Consultation
In the first meeting with an acupuncturist, they will evaluate your medical history and inspect the flow of energy within your body to gain insight into your general health status. The purpose of this evaluation is to customize the acupuncture treatment according to your unique requirements, promising a tailored therapeutic experience. (No flow of energy is considered in Mark’s treatments)
Most patients undergoing acupuncture won’t have to remove their clothing. It’s recommended that they wear loose garments that allow easy access to specific points on the body where treatment will be applied. Due to its non-intrusive nature and comfort during the process, acupuncture is an attractive choice for numerous patients.
Long-Term Benefits
Acupuncture treatments provide sustained advantages by fostering holistic health and equalizing the body’s energy levels. This method can strengthen the immune system, improve emotional health, and lessen both how often and how intense chronic pain conditions are.
By activating particular points to reinstate the flow of energy, acupuncture aids in enhancing bodily efficiency, thereby improving life quality for numerous patients. (The autobot who wrote this sure likes to speak about energy, rubbish…rubbish I say!)
Integrating Both Treatments
Incorporating both dry needling and acupuncture into a singular treatment plan can result in an all-encompassing approach that tackles specific areas of pain as well as overall health. This unified method takes advantage of the unique benefits offered by each form of therapy, enhancing outcomes for patients. Dry needling focuses on alleviating trigger points directly to reduce pain, while acupuncture aims at rebalancing the body’s energy flow for broader healing effects.
By applying these two therapies concurrently during one session, their efficiency may be amplified. Numerous specialists in pain management are integrating these techniques into their repertoire with the goal of providing relief from discomfort and establishing prolonged therapeutic results. The combined use doesn’t just offer immediate respite from agony but also encourages lasting recovery and helps prevent potential ailments.
Exploring various case studies will provide insight into how effective this dual strategy can be when applied together for managing and diminishing pain.
Combined Approach
By combining dry needling with acupuncture, practitioners are able to formulate customized treatment strategies that focus on the individual requirements of each patient. This fusion can simultaneously address acute muscle pain and systemic energy discrepancies, offering a holistic solution for managing discomfort.
This integrative approach often results in improved therapeutic results and an overall enhancement of health for patients. It is increasingly common for pain management specialists to apply both needling techniques within one appointment (physical therapists can’t do this because they don’t know enough about acupuncture), aiming to optimize the benefits obtained from the treatments.
Finding the Right Approach for Your Needs
In conclusion, both dry needling and acupuncture are valuable therapies with unique benefits. Dry needling is highly effective for targeting specific musculoskeletal pain, while acupuncture offers a more holistic approach to improving physical and emotional well-being. The choice between these treatments depends on your individual needs, health goals, and the type of pain or condition you are managing. For some, a combination of both therapies may provide the best results, ensuring a comprehensive path to recovery and wellness. (Your choice should always be to go the person who has the most training and experience using acupuncture needles inorder to assure we help and not harm you)
At Buckhead Acupuncture & Herbal Center, we specialize in personalized care to meet your unique health needs. Whether you’re seeking dry needling in Atlanta for targeted pain relief or acupuncture for overall balance, we are here to guide you on your wellness journey. Let us help you achieve lasting relief and optimal health through our tailored treatment plans, including Gynecology, Fertility, Pregnancy and More. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your path to better health!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
The main difference is that dry needling specifically targets myofascial trigger points to relieve musculoskeletal pain, whereas acupuncture aims to balance the body’s energy through Meridian points. (This is not true. Dry needling is a kind of acupuncture. Both Dry needling and acupuncture treat pain. Many acupuncturists do not believe that Qi is energy or that acupuncture has anything to do with “energy”!)
How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is generally safe when conducted by trained professionals, with most patients only experiencing mild sensations like a slight pinch or tingling during the procedure.
Can I combine dry needling and acupuncture in my treatment plan?
Yes, combining dry needling and acupuncture can enhance pain relief and improve overall wellness by targeting both localized pain and energetic imbalances effectively.
Who should consider dry needling?
Individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, or movement disorders should consider dry needling.
Consulting a trained healthcare provider for evaluation is essential before proceeding. (That means go to a licensed acupuncturist whether you’re seeking something called dry needling or something called acupuncture… if you’ve read this far by now surely, you’ve figured it out… dry needling is acupuncture by another name)
Skip to content