If you’ve ever heard conflicting information about acupuncture and dry needling, you’re not alone. Depending on who you ask, they might seem completely unrelated—or like two sides of the same coin. As a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) with over seven years of intensive training and clinical experience, I believe dry needling is a subset of acupuncture, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
The Historical Context: Ah Shi Needling
In TCM, there’s a practice historically known as "Ah Shi" or "Ah Yes" needling. This technique focuses on points of tenderness, which are often areas of muscle tightness or trigger points. Sound familiar? That’s because it closely resembles what is now called dry needling. The key distinction, however, lies in the broader context and methodology of acupuncture.
Local vs. Local and Distal Needling
Dry needling typically targets local areas of pain or tension, which can provide temporary relief. Acupuncture, on the other hand, integrates both local and distal points—addressing not just the symptom, but the root cause. By using the body’s meridian system, acupuncture promotes holistic healing, balancing the entire system rather than focusing solely on one area. This comprehensive approach, in my experience, leads to more effective and longer-lasting results.
What About Myofascial Release and Trigger Points?
You might also hear dry needling described as myofascial release or trigger point needling. While these techniques are valuable, they represent just one aspect of acupuncture. As an LAc, my training equips me to determine when local needling is appropriate, and when a more systemic approach is required. For musculoskeletal conditions, I always incorporate the two together! This ability to adapt treatments to each individual’s needs is one of the hallmarks of acupuncture’s effectiveness.
Yes, I do offer dry needling, but to me, it's part of the acupuncture treatment. Just like I might add in cupping or gua sha, which other healthcare practitioners also have brought into their practice—once again, by different names. Some might say it’s different because acupuncture uses terminology like qi, meridian systems, and energy, whereas dry needling focuses on fascia, trigger points, and myofascial release. But it’s essentially the same thing. Back in the day, practitioners didn’t have the same terminology we use today. If you look at some state medicine boards’ scope of practice, you’ll see that acupuncture often encompasses dry needling.
For example, in Virginia, the "Practice of acupuncture" is described as the stimulation of specific points on or near the body's surface by inserting needles to prevent or modify the perception of pain or to normalize physiological functions. This includes techniques such as electroacupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion.
The Importance of Qualifications
Here’s where things get tricky: Not all practitioners offering dry needling have the same level of training. Acupuncturists undergo thousands of hours of education and clinical practice to master the safe and effective use of needles. In contrast, some providers who offer dry needling may have only completed a weekend workshop.
If you encounter someone performing dry needling but leaving needles in for extended periods, connecting them to e-stim units, or treating conditions beyond musculoskeletal pain, they may be operating outside their legal scope of practice. In some cases, this could even be considered fraudulent activity. To ensure your safety and the best possible outcome, always verify that your practitioner is properly licensed and trained.
Why Full Acupuncture Treatment Matters
While dry needling can offer temporary relief, full acupuncture treatment provides a deeper, more comprehensive healing experience. By combining local needling with distal points and addressing the underlying imbalances in the body, acupuncture promotes lasting wellness. Whether you’re dealing with pain, stress, or chronic health concerns, acupuncture offers a time-tested, effective approach.
If you’re curious about how acupuncture can support your health, let’s start a conversation. With years of training and clinical expertise, I’m here to provide treatments tailored to your unique needs.
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