Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

While both use similar needles, dry needling is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. It specifically targets muscle tissue and trigger points to manage pain and movement dysfunction.

Dry Needling & Myofascial Relief

Q: What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a clinical technique using thin filament needles to target myofascial trigger points (muscle knots). It is used to reduce muscle tension and improve musculoskeletal function.

Integrated musculoskeletal management utilizing thin filament needles to target muscle tension and support recovery in Holland Park.

Qualified Clinical Application | Over 23 Years Experience

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is an evidence-informed technique used to manage various musculoskeletal conditions. It involves inserting a fine, sterile needle into a myofascial trigger point—more commonly known as a muscle knot.

Common musculoskeletal signs that may benefit:

Localized muscle pain or "knots"
Referred pain patterns in the limbs
Reduced range of motion due to muscle stiffness
Chronic tension in the neck, shoulders, or lower back

The Physiological Response

When the needle is inserted, it can trigger a local twitch response in the muscle. This reaction helps to "reset" the muscle fiber and improve blood flow to the area.

At Silky Oak Chiropractic, Dr. Jan Jones often incorporates dry needling as an adjunct to spinal adjustments to address the muscular component of your discomfort.

Is it the Same as Acupuncture?

While the needles are identical, the clinical reasoning is different. Dry needling is based on modern Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. It focuses on intramuscular stimulation to manage pain and movement dysfunction rather than traditional meridian points.

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