Exploring two powerful tools for pain and musculoskeletal health In recent years, dry needling has gained popularity across physiotherapy and musculoskeletal clinics as a proven method for addressing muscular dysfunction, stiffness, and pain. But for many, it bears a striking resemblance to an older and legitimate therapy — acupuncture. At our Gold Coast Acupuncture clinic, we are frequently asked, "What's the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?" The truth is that although they have different philosophies and origins, the techniques are pretty similar in application and therapy. Let us delve deeper into how dry needling differs from acupuncture, their commonalities of benefits, and why they are both important in modern integrative health care. What Is Dry Needling? Dry needling is a new Western therapy that uses very fine solid needles to penetrate the skin and stimulate trigger points — bands