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Acupuncture Needles vs. Dry Needling: What's the Difference?

Acupuncture Needles vs. Dry Needling: What's the Difference?

What's the major difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture: What's Best for You?

Discussions about needles can be intimidating for individuals. However, it is imperative to understand the varying significance of acupuncture needles and dry needling to make an informed choice. These needles act as beneficial tools during times of pain and healing.

Various factors such as origin, purpose, techniques, and outcomes draw a broad line of difference in the understanding of these needles. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide stating the difference between acupuncture and dry needling.

Comprehending Acupuncture Needles

The root of acupuncture needles in Canada can be traced back to the traditional practice of Chinese medicine. This treatment is based on the concept of harmonizing the body's energy. It is termed as "Qi" and pronounced as "chee". The practitioners of acupuncture needles acknowledge that this Qi flows through various pathways in the body, termed meridians.

 Unprecedented interruption through this flow can result in illness or pain. It mainly functions by acting on the roots of pain and intends to provide comfort as a favourable outcome. The treatment focuses on the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of the body, celebrating holistic unification and well-being.

Types of Acupuncture needles

The variants of acupuncture needles are designed to meet varying needs. Hence, their configuration differs by adaptive shape and size.

  1. Filiform Acupuncture Needles

    The usage of filiform acupuncture needles in Canada is widely witnessed in modern acupuncture treatments. Their precision, patient comfort, and flexibility make them ideal choices for modern treatment. They are made of high-grade stainless steel, contributing to their durability and hygiene.

    The needles come in various measurements, typically ranging from 13mm to 130mm, according to varying acupuncture points and the extent of insertion. They have a fine tip that acts as a point of penetration within the skin, ensuring minimal discomfort. The shorter ones are designed to work on shallow points, implying body parts such as the face or hands.

    In contrast, the longer ones intend to work on deeper muscle tissues, mostly in the back, hips, and thighs. Their list of benefits includes painless insertion, which helps stimulate acupoints to accelerate Qi energy flow. Further, it helps with significant pain reduction and encourages healing without considering the possibility of injecting substances into your body.

  2. Electro-Acupuncture Needles

    These are tailored acupuncture needles designed for use with an electro-acupuncture device. They function by stimulating acupuncture points with controlled current flow.

    The needles contain attached electrodes, which are directly linked to an electro-acupuncture device. This device facilitates the generation of gentle electrical impulses. The needles benefit by providing extensive pain relief and muscle stimulation.

  3. Intramuscular Needles

    These needles are designed for intramuscular therapy and function by treating muscle tissues. Compared to average acupuncture needles in Canada, Intramuscular needles are thicker and longer in size. The thickness and length help them penetrate the deeper layers of tissue, eventually reaching the muscle.

    The needles' measurements vary from 1 to 2 inches, with a gauge size of 20 to 23. They are widely used to facilitate trigger point therapy and have proven effective for alleviating pain and tension in muscle tissues.

    Its benefits include reducing spasms, alleviating chronic pain and improving mobility. These needles are highly recommended for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal and pain-related disorders.

Advantages of using Acupuncture Needles

  • Alleviate pain
    Acupuncture needles work by stimulating specific points in the body, which release endorphins, commonly referred to as natural painkillers. Its wide usage benefits address issues like arthritis, joint issues, migraines, and back pain. They offer drug-free relief that eliminates pain without any side effects.

  • Stress Relief
    Acupuncture has proven highly effective in encouraging deep relaxation and bringing harmony to the body's systems. It works on stress points in muscles and gently mitigates pain. This, in turn, enhances mood and significantly reduces anxiety. Eventually, the pain relief contributes to improving sleep quality and promoting mental well-being.

  • l Enhanced Immune Function
    With the immune system, the acupuncture needle in Canada enhances the production of white blood cells, providing the required defence against attacking pathogens. Further, it modulates the levels of cytokines that shape immune responses, manifesting better coordination of immune functions.

    Furthermore, it works on the root cause of immune dysfunction by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. Likewise, it boosts the body's cortisol levels, promoting resilience. Overall, it plays a vital role in optimizing immune function and safeguarding overall health.

Comprehending Dry needling

Unlike Acupuncture needles, dry needling is rooted in Western medical science. It primarily treats specific muscle dysfunctions by injecting needles into trigger points. This works to address issues like muscle tightness and localized pain specifically. In contrast to acupuncture needles, treatment via dry needling does not involve holistic healing but typically treats muscle turmoil.

Benefits of using dry needling

  • Dry needling is used to relieve muscle tension. It prioritizes specific tight areas rather than overall healing.
  • This technique also enhances flexibility and treats muscle soreness, making it ideal for athletes who want to maintain their physique.
  • Based on the patient's condition and immunity, the Physical therapist may consider using dry needles to alleviate pain.
  • Neuromuscular reprogramming works by re-configuring muscle activation patterns to treat chronic pain and result in improved functionality.

Choosing Between Acupuncture Needles and Dry Needling

Given the features and benefits of both needles, an individual's choice of usage depends on their health goals and prevailing issues. Here are some factors to consider to make an informed choice.

  • If you are suffering from chronic pain, then an acupuncture needle is a better choice. This will focus on holistic healing, which will help address a wide range of undetected symptoms beyond active pain.
  • If you are dealing with muscle soreness or tightness caused by exercises or injuries, dry needling can help you gain immediate relief through targeted treatment.
  • Health conditions like stress, anxiety, or digestive issues can be treated through acupuncture needles in Canada.
  • In contrast, dry needling has proven useful for patients recovering from surgery. It has been an integral part of their rehabilitation program and has aided in quick recovery.

Closing Thoughts

Both acupuncture needles and dry needling have emerged as beneficial choices for patients. Whether focusing on holistic healing or looking for targeted relief, comprehending their benefits and usage will help achieve optimal health. Consult a certified professional for information, assistance and guidance on incorporating needles into your recovery. One can gain the most out of these needles by focusing on the unique aspects of both needles and getting the right help.

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