Acupuncture vs Dry Needling: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?
Physiotherapists frequently utilise acupuncture vs dry needling, two methods that both use thin, sterile needles to reduce pain and enhance physical function. Patients should be aware of certain significant distinctions between the two procedures despite the apparent similarity between them.
Both acupuncture vs dry needling are provided as part of the full range of services at One Body LDN physiotherapy London Bridge. The distinctions between these two approaches will be discussed in this article, along with how patients with different diseases can benefit from them.
What is acupuncture?
Thin needles are inserted into precise body locations during the ancient Chinese practise of acupuncture. Acupuncture seeks to balance the body’s Qi flow, which is said to be the origin of all physiological processes. Acupuncture can help to relieve pain, lessen inflammation, and enhance general physical and emotional well-being by balancing the Qi.
Many ailments, such as chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, depression, and digestive problems are frequently treated with acupuncture. The therapist will place needles into particular body locations during an acupuncture session; these sites are said to connect to various organs and physical processes. The therapist may adjust the needles to improve the therapeutic benefits after they have been left in for a while.
How does dry needling work?
On the other hand, dry needling is a relatively recent method that is founded on Western medical ideas. Thin needles are inserted into particular muscle trigger points, which are hyperirritable spots that might hurt or be uncomfortable. In order to release these trigger points and reduce pain and stiffness in the affected area, dry needling is used.
Musculoskeletal disorders like back pain, neck discomfort, and shoulder pain are frequently treated with dry needling. A twitch reaction, which is a sign that the trigger point has been released, is produced when the therapist inserts needles into the trigger points during a dry needling session. The therapist may also utilise electrical stimulation to augment the therapeutic effects while the needles are left in place for a number of minutes.
What are the differences between dry needling and acupuncture?
Although small needles are used in both acupuncture and dry needling, there are some significant variations between the two practises. The underlying principle of each technique is where there are the most differences. Whereas dry needling is based on the principles of Western medicine, which highlight the architecture and physiology of the musculoskeletal system, acupuncture is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which emphasises the balance of energy in the body.
The location of the needles is another distinction between the two methods. The needles used in acupuncture are put into precise body sites, some of which may be distant from the source of the pain or discomfort. With dry needling, the trigger points, which are found in the muscles generating the pain, are directly injected with needles.
Finally, acupuncture vs dry needling may have different therapeutic outcomes. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers, and acupuncture is thought to encourage their release as well as increase Qi flow. On the other hand, dry needling is said to loosen up the trigger points and lessen muscular tension, which can lessen pain and stiffness.
Which Approach Is Best for You?
Your unique needs and the problem you are dealing with will determine whether you should utilise acupuncture or dry needling. Our skilled experts at physiotherapy London Bridge hub One Body LDN will collaborate with you to choose the most appropriate course of action for your particular needs. As part of our complete physiotherapy services, we provide both acupuncture and dry needling. Your treatment plan will be personalised based on your particular needs and objectives.
In order to schedule a consultation and find out more about our services, get in touch with London Bridge physio hub One Body LDN right away if you are feeling pain or discomfort and are thinking about trying acupuncture or dry needling as a therapy option.
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