What is dry needling?

Dry needling is the insertion of very thin needles into specific points in a muscle called “trigger points” with the goal of relieving muscle tension and pain. A trigger point is a hyperirritable spot usually found in a taut band of skeletal muscle, which is painful when pressed. This pain may local or cause referred pain to a location other than the trigger point itself (e.g. a trigger point in the shoulder may cause pain in the arm). Trigger points often develop due to overuse, poor posture, stress, or injury, and are a common cause of chronic pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion. During dry needling, muscles sometimes twitch or jump in response to the stimulation, “releasing” the tension and resetting normal muscle function.

How does dry needling differ from acupuncture?

Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and aims to balance the body’s energy (Qi) and stimulate the natural healing response. Acupuncture can be used to treat physical, mental, and emotional conditions, including anxiety, acute or chronic pain, insomnia, and digestive issues. Instead of treating just one symptom, acupuncturists treat the whole person. Addressing root imbalances that may contribute to pain, stress, or dysfunction is an important part of an acupuncture treatment.

Dry needling IS acupuncture

Dry needling is just one form of acupuncture and one of many tools an acupuncturist may use, depending on a patient’s symptoms and underlying patterns. Licensed acupuncturists complete 3-4 years of formal education, clinical internships, and are licensed and certified under strict national and state standards. Their training covers a wide range of techniques, including dry needling (trigger point therapy), myofascial release, cupping, herbal medicine, bodywork, and multiple styles of acupuncture. Acupuncturists tailor each treatment to the individual. They choose the best approach based on the whole person, not just the symptoms. Thousands of hours of training in anatomy, point selection, needle depth, and safety ensures accurate diagnosis, minimizes risk, and supports effective, personalized care.

Curious if dry needling is right for you? We’re here to help. Book an appointment and come see one of our licensed acupuncturists to learn which approach best fits your needs!