Basic HTML Version
What are the differences between
acupuncture and dry needling?
Acupuncture is an ancient form of treat-
ment that has long been a component of
traditional Chinesemedicine. This treatment
focuses on the use of needles to stimulate
specific “acupuncture pressure points.” In
traditional acupuncture, it is thought that
these points access what are termed “merid-
ians,” channels through which a life force
known as
qi
is believed to flow. Practitioners
of acupuncture believe that accessing these
meridians can effectively treat a wide range
of symptoms and conditions.
“Acupuncture is part of a 4,000-year-
old tradition that has been used to treat
everything from migraine headaches to
sinus conditions to toe pain,” explains Chris
Tran, LAc, of AcupunctureWellness Center.
“There is practically no limit to what it can
treat; it all depends on the training and skill
of the individual.” Many of Tran’s patients
come to himwith neck or back pain, but he
has worked on numerous other conditions.
Recently he has begun using acupuncture
to assist with fertility issues.
Tran says that most patients can see a
significant benefit after only two or three
visits. “If it is an acute condition, it may be
resolved with just one visit.”
The Louisiana State Board of Medical
Examiners licenses acupuncture in the
state. Requirements include six months of
training in traditional Chinese acupuncture
in a school or clinic approved by the board,
as well as completion of 300 credit hours of
continuing medical education in acupunc-
ture designated as category one continuing
Taryn Cohn, MSPT, COMT,
of Baudry Therapy Center,
works with a patient.