Comparison between dry needling and acupuncture
Topic |
Dry needling (1) |
Acupuncture (2) |
| Pathophysiology |
Musculoskeletal - Western scientific model |
Energetic concept within Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Indication | Myofascial pain | Similar and many other indications |
| Physiological response |
Deactivation trigger points - Neuromodulation Improve range of motion - Muscle pattern activation |
Endorphins - Neuromodulation Believed to adjust and alter the body’s energy flow into healthier patterns |
| Point selection | Palpation determines where needles are placed | Needles are inserted into specific points on the skin |
| Needling technique |
Usually one needle - shorter stimulation |
Usually more needles - lengthier stimulation |
| Clinical application | Physical therapy - Manual therapy |
Traditional Chinese medicine |
1. Dommerholt, J. Dry needling - peripheral and central considerations. Journal Of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 2011;19(4), 223-227.
2. Acupuncture. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. (2008). Retrieved on April 27, 2019.