Dry Needling vs Acupuncture: Which Is Better?

Dry needling is a technique that uses thin needles to penetrate muscle tissue. It is performed with filiform needles from short, thin, stainless steel. The aim is to focus on the trigger points in your body that cause pain and discomfort. It helps release tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is used to alleviate musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. So, if you are someone going through chronic pain and muscle tightness, have a look at this option.

Dry needling works by targeting specific trigger points within muscles. When the needle is inserted, it stimulates the muscle fibres, causing them to contract and relax. Even though the process is quite short, clients have reported less pain and optimal results. With each session, clients experience reduced tightness and improved mobility. This can be an effective option for individuals to ease muscle pain and feel at ease in everyday activities.

Here is an overview of how dry needling relieves pain:

• Needle Placement:

  Sterile needles are placed in tense muscle areas.

• Twitch Response:

  The technique triggers a muscle twitch, releasing tension.

• Improved Circulation:

  Blood flow increases in the treated area, which helps reduce pain and promote healing.

• Natural Healing Process:

  It releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, providing further relief from discomfort

• Pain Relief:

  Many experience reduced pain and better muscle function after treatment.

Individuals with scar tissue and tendon problems can opt for dry needling. It motivates healing and reduces pain by focusing on tight and painful spots in muscles and fascia. In addition to boosting blood flow, it triggers an inflammatory response. As a result, the body repairs itself. For conditions like tendon injuries and post-surgical scarring, the treatment has proved useful.

Similarly, tendinopathy treatments involve repetitive needling to create an inflammatory response within the tendon. By breaking down tough areas and enhancing flexibility, it supports the body’s natural recuperative functions. So, if you are doubtful about whether to go for acupuncture or needling for treating scar tissue or tendinopathy, you know what to do!

If you’re struggling with muscle pain or tightness, dry needling might be the solution. The needles in targeted spots provide quick relief, helping you get on with your tasks at home or work smoothly. Many people choose dry needling over acupuncture for the following reasons:

• Pain Relief:

  It reduces muscle tightness and trigger points for swift relief.

• Improved Circulation:

  By increasing blood flow, it quickens the recovery process.

• Condition Treatment:

  This technique has proved effective for problems like sports injuries, chronic pain, and headaches.

• Increased Flexibility:

  Many patients notice they can move more easily post-treatment.

• Stress Reduction:

  This method eases tension in the body, contributing to an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.

• Versatile Therapy:

  It works well with multiple pain management treatments.

• Targeted Approach:

  This focuses on specific areas of discomfort, ensuring precise and efficient treatment.

Dry needling and acupuncture use needles to help with pain and healing but both work differently. While needling focuses on muscle knots and tight areas, acupuncture is a core component of traditional Chinese medicine. The process works by restoring natural healing by improving energy flow. Acupuncture is often described as a holistic approach to natural healing. While research continues to explore its mechanisms, many people find it helps reduce stress and relieve pain, enhancing general well-being.

Acupuncture engages the entire body, rather than focusing solely on specific muscle areas like dry needling. The acupuncturist first discusses the patient’s health condition and places thin needles into targeted pathways called meridians. The process activates the nervous system, which releases neurotransmitters and hormones to relieve pain.

During the treatment, many patients feel relaxed. The duration for which the needles stay in place varies among individuals and depends on the effectiveness of the therapy.  Practitioners often stress the importance of creating a personalised treatment plan for the body to take in the benefits.

Acupuncture is a flexible treatment option that aids various health issues. Whether you are struggling with persistent aches or stress management, this can help you get back on your feet feeling energised. Here are some common issues that acupuncture – in some cases dry needling – can effectively address:

• Sinus problems

• Low back pain

• Hormonal imbalances

• Fibromyalgia

• Digestive issues

• Anxiety

• Headaches

• Neck pain

• Osteoarthritis

• Stress relief

Just like dry needling, acupuncture has many benefits, making it a great choice for people looking for drug-free health treatments. This age-old practice helps the body increase the feel-good hormones which fastens its recovery process. Apart from achieving a well-rounded health journey that boosts your body and mind, here are some more advantages:

• Pain Relief:

  It helps with recurring headaches, arthritis, and back aches.

• Better Movement:

  Acupuncture increases mobility and reduces stiffness in different areas of the body.

• Less Stress:

  The therapy improves relaxation by lowering stress and anxiety.

• Better Sleep:

  It helps minimise insomnia and enables better sleep patterns.

• Digestive Support:

  If you face symptoms related to digestion, this approach can diminish the discomfort.

Many people ask, “Is dry needling and acupuncture the same?” because both use thin needles as part of their treatment. The sensation of inserting the needles varies depending on the individual and the technique. Both treatments may cause some discomfort but are generally well-tolerated. When receiving acupuncture, you might feel a quick pinch when the needle goes in, but most people say it does not hurt much. They often feel a heavy or tingling sensation, which means your body is reacting well. The goal is to rev up the body’s healing mechanism.

On the other hand, when it comes to pain, many wonder about dry needling vs acupuncture: which one is more sensitive? The former can sometimes be slightly more uncomfortable, especially when targeting tight muscle knots. While it might be uncomfortable briefly, any existing pain usually gets pacified. Ultimately, both processes are meant to relieve pain and help you feel better. It all comes down to how susceptible you are and the way the practitioner works.

If you are looking for customised treatments to help you feel your best, you have hit the jackpot! At HealMe Beauty & Health Center, we know every individual has unique needs on their journey to wellness. Our team takes the time to understand your health inquiries, delivering custom treatments that align with your lifestyle and goals. Our team consists of trained professionals with extensive experience in their fields.

At HealMe, we prioritise safety, quality, and results, using trusted products and maintaining strict hygiene standards. Our comprehensive services, from skincare to health treatments like acupuncture and massages, ensure personalised care and noticeable improvements for your well-being. Call us on 03 9686 6686 / 0468 837 286 or email us at healmecenter@gmail.com to learn more about our dry needling and acupuncture treatments in Melbourne.