Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling: What’s the Difference

If you’ve ever dealt with chronic pain, muscle tightness, or injuries, chances are you’ve come across two popular needle-based therapies: acupuncture and dry needling. While they may look similar, their origins, techniques, and purposes are quite different. Let's break down what sets them apart, the benefits of each, and when they’re typically used.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that dates back thousands of years. It’s based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the body’s vital energy, which flows through pathways known as meridians. According to TCM, illness or pain results when Qi is blocked or out of balance.

Acupuncturists insert thin needles into specific points along these meridians to help restore balance and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

Common Uses for Acupuncture:

• Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis)

• Headaches and migraines

• Stress, anxiety, and insomnia

• Digestive issues

• Menstrual or fertility concerns

Benefits of Acupuncture:

• Reduces stress & anxiety

• Boosts immunity

• Eases chronic pain & headaches

• Supports digestion & sleep

• Done by our registered acupuncturist at the clinic

Cupping

In addition to needling, many acupuncturists use cupping therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Cupping involves placing special glass, silicone, or plastic cups on the skin to create suction. This technique helps increase blood circulation, release muscle tension, and draw out toxins from deeper tissues.

Common Uses for Cupping:

• Muscle stiffness and tightness

• Back, neck, or shoulder pain

• Sports recovery

• Improved lymphatic flow and detoxification

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a technique developed from modern Western medicine, often used by physical therapists, chiropractors, or other licensed healthcare providers. It targets myofascial trigger points, knots or tight bands in muscle tissue that can cause pain and restrict movement. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling focuses on musculoskeletal dysfunction, not energy flow. The goal is to release muscle tension, improve mobility, and reduce pain by causing a twitch response or relaxing the trigger point.

Common Uses for Dry Needling:

• Muscle tightness or spasms

• Sports injuries

• Tendonitis or tendinopathy

• Sciatica or lower back pain

• Rehabilitation from injury or surgery

Benefits of Dry Needling:

• Relieves muscle tightness & pain

• Improves range of motion

• Speeds up recovery from injury

• Helps with sports performance

• Done by our chiropractors