Is Dry Needling the Same as Acupuncture? Understanding the Differences and How Axcess Accident Center Can Help

When it comes to relieving pain, reducing muscle tension, and improving mobility, both dry needling and acupuncture have gained popularity in recent years. They may look similar on the surface—both use thin needles inserted into the body—but are they actually the same treatment?

The short answer is: No, dry needling and acupuncture are not the same. While they share some tools, they differ greatly in training, philosophy, application, and outcomes. Let’s break it down.


🔍 Key Differences Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture

Dry Needling Acupuncture
  • Typically performed by physical therapists or chiropractors with minimal needle training
  • Performed by licensed acupuncturists or certified chiropractors with hundreds of hours of specialized training & National Board Certified
  • Focuses only on trigger points or tight muscles
  • Treats the whole body by stimulating meridians and balancing energy (Qi)
  • Western medical approach targeting musculoskeletal pain
  • Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine with a holistic philosophy
  • Primarily used for short-term muscle release
  • Used for both acute and chronic conditions, including pain, stress, digestion, sleep, and more
  • Often used in physical therapy clinics
  • Practiced in wellness and rehabilitation clinics like Axcess Accident Center

Why Acupuncture Offers a Higher-Level Healing Experience

At Axcess Accident Center, we go beyond basic symptom relief. Our doctors are certified in acupuncture, offering advanced care that not only relieves muscle tension but also promotes long-term healing throughout the entire body.

Acupuncture is especially effective when treating musculoskeletal injuries like those sustained in:

Rather than just releasing a single muscle knot, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system through balancing chi, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and restores balance across multiple body systems. An acupucnture treatment takes about 20 mins and patients find it very relaxing as well.

Many patients often find themselves falling asleep during the actual treatment and feeling relaxed afterwards. Acupuncture can help many symptoms and injuries naturally with little to no side effects.

Patients at Axcess report that they feel less tension, more relaxed, and an overall lighter feeling after receiving an acupuncture session. It is very beneficial and can defintely help those who have stagnated in their treament or goals in recovery.


Acupuncture at Axcess Accident Center

If you’ve been injured in an auto accident or are dealing with ongoing pain, acupuncture at Axcess Accident Center may be the solution you need. Our certified professionals combine their knowledge of Western injury patterns with the time-tested techniques of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Whether you’re dealing with whiplash, lower back pain, headaches, or soft tissue injuries, we provide a comprehensive and natural path to recovery.


Ready to Experience the Difference?

Don’t settle for quick fixes. Choose a healing method that looks at the bigger picture. If you’ve been injured or are struggling with chronic muscle pain, schedule an acupuncture consultation at Axcess Accident Center today. Our team is here to help you recover fully and live your extraordinary life.

Axcess Accident Center has been Voted BEST ACUPUNCTURE in Utah County in both 2024 & 2025.  We are honored by this recognition as we strive to be the best in the industry.

📞 Call us at (801) 701-8222 or visit Axcessac.com to book your appointment.

Our locations include: American Fork, Provo, Spanish Fork, and West Valley City

Published On: April 15th, 2025 / Categories: Acupuncture / Tags: , , /

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