Acupuncture, dry needling and acupressure — are they the same procedure?

Although they look similar on the outside, each has a different area of application and mechanism of action.

Author: Dr. Elfana Suleymanova Medically reviewed

Actually, no. These methods may look similar, but their theoretical basis, indications and mechanisms of action are different.

1

Acupuncture

This method comes from Chinese medicine. It aims to restore the balance of the body’s energy channels (meridians). Biologically active points are stimulated with needles, laser or electricity.

2

Dry needling

This method comes from modern Western physiotherapy. It targets tension points within the muscle (trigger points). A thin needle is passed through the skin, fascia, muscle and ligaments — this balances the connections between nerves and muscles.

3

Acupressure

It is a needle-free method — finger pressure is applied to the same biologically active points.


We look not at where the pain is, but at where it comes from.
— Dr. Elfana Suleymanova, Center Director · Internist and osteopathic physician

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