22/03/2022
And here is my longer version on the acupuncture vs. dry needling conversation:
Acupuncture is one of the therapies used within Traditional Chinese Medicine (also referred to as East Asian or Oriental medicine) and employs a complex, energetic, thousands of years old medical theory to diagnose and treat a condition, musculoskeletal or internal (covering issues like hormonal imbalances, digestion, insomnia, allergies, etc.). 4 years of graduate study typically totaling 3,000 hours is the baseline education for an acupuncturist/Chinese Medicine practitioner. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners also use Chinese herbal prescriptions, tui na, shiatsu, (these are forms of medical massage) cupping, and other traditional techniques and electrical stimulation to treat health conditions. Sessions in my practice are about an hour long involving acupuncture, time to rest with needles inserted, possible use of the above techniques, and lifestyle recommendations if warranted.
Dry needling is the term used by chiropractors, physical therapists, and physicians who insert needles as a part of their treatment. (In this area it’s still often being called acupuncture). Calling it dry needling is a way to seperate it from the practice of acupuncture. This typically looks like a few minutes of needle insertion into the musculoskeletal area you’re working on with your practitioner. They’ve received a certification within their association after a 50-300 hour course. It can certainly improve the efficacy of your physical therapy or chiropractic care and again is musculoskeletal focused.
Always feel free to reach out and ask questions!
Photo: Acupuncture Points by David Gifford