Both dry needling and acupuncture are procedures that involve penetration of the skin using solid filiform needles with therapeutic intent. Both techniques appear to be very similar on the surface, however there are also some key differences outlined in the table below.
Which needling technique is better for ME?
To my knowledge, there is no scientific evidence which indicates one technique is more effective than the other. It really depends on your individual beliefs and goals, your expectations of treatment and what you are seeking in a health practitioner.
Dry Needling | Acupuncture |
Use filiform needles inserted into different parts of the body | Use filiform needles inserted into different parts of the body |
Performed predominantly by physios and chiros | Performed by certified acupuncturists |
Address musculoskeletal conditions | Addresses a broader range of conditions (ie GI, fertility, musculoskeletal conditions) |
Theory involves producing a neurophysiological change | Theory involves balancing the flow of energy in the body, known as Chi |
Needles are inserted into tissues we are trying to impact | Needles are inserted along meridian lines which are thought to be passageways through which energy flows |
Shorter needle retention | Longer needle retention |
Dry Needling versus Acupuncture: The Ongoing Debate
Kehua Zhou,Yan Ma, Michael S Brogan Volume 33, Issue 6 https://doi.org/10.1136/acupmed-2015-010911
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