Acupuncture And Dry-Needling

Acupuncture and dry-needling (also sometimes called intramuscular stimulation or IMS) of muscle trigger points are particularly effective techniques for the treatment of chronic pain and muscle tightness. Needles are carefully inserted into shortened muscles to stimulate the relaxation and lengthening of the muscle. Specifically, some common conditions treated are: headaches, neck and back pain, shoulder pain, muscle tightness, and more.

Acupuncture is practiced by Acupuncturists or Chiropractors with special training. Comparatively, dry-needling is performed by Physiotherapists with special training. The two modalities differ in terms of historical, philosophical, indicative, and practical context. Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is a practice that has been used for thousands of years whereas dry-needling is based on Western neuroanatomy and scientific studies of the musculoskeletal and nervous system.

The main difference between acupuncture and dry-needling is that acupuncture relieves pain, discomfort, and other issues by placing needles in specific points in the body whereas dry-needling is designed to stimulate trigger points, or muscles that are irritable. Knowing the differences can help you decide which type of treatment is right for you.

There is research supporting the benefits of both modalities for relieving headaches, neck and back pain, muscle tightness, and more. They both have a very low risk for side effects, however some side effects may include bruising and temporary soreness.

Acupuncture and dry-needling offer great complimentary care to Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, and Massage Therapy. We have both Chiropractors and Physiotherapists certified in acupuncture and dry-needling and are able to help you if you have any further questions on it. We also have clinic shorts and shirts you can borrow while getting your treatment done in case you are rushing here after your work day.

Common Conditions Treated