Both medical acupuncture and dry needling are modern techniques used to treat pain, improve mobility, and enhance recovery. 

 

What is Medical Acupuncture?

 

Medical acupuncture is a modern, Western approach to acupuncture that integrates neuroanatomy and evidence-based medicine. Unlike traditional Chinese acupuncture, which is based on Qi (energy flow) and meridian theory, medical acupuncture focuses on stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissues to modulate pain and promote healing.

 

How Medical Acupuncture Works:

• Stimulates the nervous system, triggering the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) and serotonin (mood stabiliser).

• Modulates pain pathways in the brain and spinal cord, reducing chronic pain sensitivity.

• Improves blood flow to targeted areas, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

• Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps with stress reduction and relaxation.

 

Common Conditions Treated with Medical Acupuncture:

• Chronic pain (e.g., lower back pain, osteoarthritis, migraines)

• Neuropathic pain (e.g., sciatica, nerve impingements)

• Musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., tendonitis, muscle strains)

• Stress-related conditions (e.g., tension headaches, anxiety)

 

 

What is Dry Needling?

 

Dry needling is a Western medical technique that specifically targets trigger points—tight, hyperirritable knots in muscles that cause pain and restrict movement. It is called “dry” because the needles do not inject any medication; instead, they work by mechanically stimulating the muscle to release tension and restore normal function.

 

How Dry Needling Works:

• The needle is inserted directly into a trigger point, which helps release muscle tightness.

• It creates a localised twitch response, which improves neuromuscular control and breaks the pain cycle.

• Increases blood flow to the affected area, delivering oxygen and nutrients for faster healing.

• Helps reset dysfunctional pain signals from the muscle to the nervous system.

 

Common Conditions Treated with Dry Needling:

• Myofascial pain syndrome (chronic muscle pain from trigger points)

• Muscle spasms and tension (e.g., in the neck, shoulders, or lower back)

• Sports injuries (e.g., hamstring strains, rotator cuff dysfunction)

• Joint pain caused by muscle tightness (e.g., knee pain, hip pain)

Four Major Benefits of Medical Acupuncture & Dry Needling
1. Effective Pain Relief
• Acupuncture stimulates the body’s pain-relieving mechanisms, while dry needling directly releases muscle tension.
• Both can reduce reliance on painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications.
2. Improved Muscle Function & Flexibility
• Dry needling breaks down adhesions and scar tissue, helping muscles move more freely.
• Acupuncture regulates nerve signals to optimise muscle control and coordination.
3. Faster Recovery from Injuries
• Both techniques promote increased circulation and oxygenation of tissues, accelerating healing.
• Dry needling is especially effective for athletes recovering from muscle strains and tendon issues.
4. Reduced Stress & Nervous System Regulation
• Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps lower stress and anxiety.
• Both techniques help reduce muscle guarding (unconscious muscle tightness due to stress or pain).