Dry needling vs acupuncture: what's the difference?

Dry needling and traditional acupuncture are often confused with one another because they both involve the use of fine needles. Despite this similarity, they’re based on very different principles and offer unique benefits depending on your health needs.

Dry needling is commonly used by physiotherapists to target muscle knots and relieve tension. It focuses on the physical structure of the body, aiming to reduce pain and improve movement. Acupuncture, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, takes a more holistic view by working with the body’s energy flow, or meridians, to support overall wellbeing.

With both options widely available across Australia, it helps to know what sets them apart. Some people seek fast relief for a sports injury or muscle pain, while others are looking for support with sleep, digestion, or stress. The right choice often comes down to your symptoms, goals, and personal preferences.

This guide will walk you through the key differences to help you decide which approach might suit you best.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a treatment method that uses thin, sterile needles to target specific muscle knots known as myofascial trigger points. These tight spots can cause local pain, stiffness, or even referred pain in other parts of the body. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is based on Western anatomical science and focuses purely on the structure and function of the muscles.

This technique is often used by physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and other trained manual therapists. It’s especially common in sports and rehabilitation settings.

Here’s what sets dry needling apart:

• Targets muscle trigger points to release tension and reduce pain

• Focuses on biomechanics and nerve pathways rather than energy flow

• May cause a quick muscle twitch, which is considered a positive response

• Often used for sports injuries, chronic tightness, or postural issues

• Typically combined with other physio techniques such as stretching or exercise

The practice began gaining attention in the 1940s and has continued to evolve through ongoing research in physiotherapy and pain science. Today, it’s widely accepted in clinical settings as part of modern musculoskeletal care.

To ensure safe and effective treatment, always consult a qualified provider. The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) outlines professional standards and education for practitioners offering dry needling across the country.

What is traditional acupuncture?

Traditional acupuncture is a therapy that forms part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a system of healthcare that has been used for thousands of years. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to restore the flow of qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy believed to move through meridians, or pathways, in the body.

Rather than focusing solely on physical symptoms, acupuncture aims to support balance and harmony between the body’s systems—physical, emotional, and energetic.

Here’s how it works in practice:

1. Identifies imbalances in qi or energy flow that may be causing illness or discomfort

2. Stimulates specific acupuncture points based on TCM diagnosis, not just symptoms

3. Encourages the body’s natural healing process by improving energy circulation

4. Can be used to support a wide range of conditions, including stress, fatigue, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and sleep concerns

5. Often delivered as part of a personalised treatment plan, which may also include herbs, diet advice, or cupping

In Australia, traditional acupuncture is a registered profession. Only practitioners who meet specific education and safety standards can use the title “acupuncturist.” If you’re considering this therapy, make sure your provider is registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA).

Practising acupuncture without proper registration is not permitted, so always check credentials before booking a session.

Curious about how acupuncture works? Read more about meridian lines and their role in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Techniques compared side-by-side

Although dry needling and acupuncture both involve the use of fine, sterile needles, their purpose, placement, and overall philosophy differ significantly. Understanding these contrasts can help you decide which method aligns better with your condition, goals, and personal comfort level.

Below is a side-by-side comparison to highlight how each technique is applied in practice:

Dry needling is usually integrated into broader musculoskeletal or sports therapy treatments. It’s typically more localised and designed to produce quick mechanical responses from the muscle.

Acupuncture, by contrast, is part of a holistic therapy system that considers emotional, digestive, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. Treatment plans may span several weeks depending on your condition.

Both techniques have their place in modern care and are widely used across Australia. However, they are regulated differently, and choosing a practitioner with proper training in their respective field is essential for safety and effectiveness.

Benefits and uses: dry needling vs acupuncture

Dry needling and acupuncture both use fine needles, but the results they offer depend on what you're trying to treat. Here's how each one can support your health, based on research and practical use in Australia.

Dry needling

Dry needling is commonly used in physiotherapy settings to address physical pain and muscle dysfunction. It’s best suited for localised issues and is often applied as part of a broader rehab or exercise plan.

Key benefits include:

• Reducing muscle tightness and referred pain, especially in the shoulders, neck, and lower back

• Improving range of motion by releasing restricted trigger points

• Speeding up soft tissue recovery, particularly for sports-related injuries

• Supporting better posture in people with desk-based or repetitive jobs

A 2023 systematic review found that dry needling significantly reduced pain and disability in people with musculoskeletal conditions, especially when combined with other physiotherapy interventions.

Need muscle pain support? Find certified dry needling therapists in your area today.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture works with the body’s internal systems and is often used for both physical and emotional wellbeing. It’s widely recognised as safe when performed by registered practitioners.

Benefits include:

• Chronic pain management, especially for back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and headaches

• Relief from anxiety, stress, and insomnia

• Fertility and hormonal support, including for menstrual regulation and IVF preparation

• Improved energy, digestion, and general wellbeing

According to the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), acupuncture has been shown to help with chronic pain and certain emotional health concerns, with minimal side effects when delivered by trained professionals.

Private health cover and NDIS support may be available depending on your provider and condition.

Thinking of pursuing a career in this field? Learn more about what’s involved in studying acupuncture in Australia and how to get qualified.

Are they safe? Risks and considerations

Both dry needling and acupuncture are generally considered safe when performed by properly trained professionals. However, like any hands-on therapy, there are some risks to be aware of—especially if the practitioner isn’t adequately qualified.

Dry needling

Dry needling is widely used in physiotherapy and sports clinics, but it does involve penetrating the skin and muscle tissue. Minor side effects are common and may include:

• Temporary soreness at the needling site

• Bruising or slight bleeding

• Fatigue or muscle twitching after treatment

In rare cases, there’s a risk of more serious complications such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung), particularly when needling around the chest or upper back. These risks are greatly reduced when the therapist is properly trained and follows safety protocols.

Dry needling is not regulated as a standalone profession in Australia, so it’s important to ensure your provider is qualified—most commonly a registered physiotherapist or other AHPRA-listed health professional.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is considered very low risk when performed by a registered Chinese medicine practitioner. Side effects are usually mild and may include:

• Mild bruising or sensitivity at needle sites

• Slight dizziness or fatigue during or after treatment

Serious complications are extremely rare when hygiene standards and proper technique are followed. In Australia, acupuncture is a regulated profession under the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) and AHPRA.

Before starting either therapy, always check your practitioner’s registration to ensure they meet national safety and training standards.

Choosing the right therapy for you

Both therapies can be effective but the right choice depends on your condition, goals, and how you prefer to approach treatment. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

1. Muscle pain and tightness: Dry needling is often best if you're dealing with localised tension, trigger points, or postural strain. It's commonly used in physiotherapy settings to address mechanical issues and improve movement.

2. Chronic or systemic issues: Acupuncture may be more appropriate for conditions like insomnia, hormonal imbalance, stress, or anxiety. It works with the body’s energy systems and is designed for longer-term support.

3. Treatment goals: If you want fast relief for physical discomfort, dry needling may suit you. If you're after a more balanced, holistic approach, acupuncture offers a broader scope.

4. Personal comfort: Some people are more at ease with the structured, evidence-based nature of physiotherapy. Others may prefer the calming, whole-body focus of traditional acupuncture.

5. Professional qualifications: Always check if your practitioner is registered. Physiotherapists offering dry needling should be listed under AHPRA. Acupuncturists must be registered with the CMBA.

Both approaches can support your health in different ways. It all comes down to what feels right for your body and your health journey.

How to access these services in Australia

Both dry needling and acupuncture are widely available across Australia, but the way you access them—and how much they cost—can differ depending on the therapy and practitioner.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a nationally regulated profession in Australia. Only practitioners registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) can legally use the title “acupuncturist.”

You can book acupuncture sessions through:

• Registered Chinese medicine clinics

• Practices listed on trusted directories, such as Natural Therapy Pages

• Multi-modality wellness centres offering TCM services

Costs: Sessions typically range from $70 to $120, depending on the provider, location, and session length. Some private health funds offer rebates for acupuncture under extras cover. Medicare rebates may apply if referred under a GP Management Plan for chronic conditions.

Dry needling

Dry needling is often offered by:

• Physiotherapists

• Osteopaths

• Chiropractors and other manual therapists

It is usually part of a broader treatment plan and doesn’t require a separate appointment.

Costs: Dry needling is often included in general physiotherapy sessions, which may cost around $90 to $130. Health fund rebates can apply, and some sessions may be covered under NDIS or WorkCover, depending on your eligibility and provider.

Before booking any therapy, it’s important to check the practitioner’s qualifications and make sure they’re experienced in the technique you’re seeking.

Wrapping up

Dry needling and acupuncture may appear similar on the surface, but they’re built on very different foundations. Dry needling follows a structural, muscle-based approach, aiming to release tension and restore movement. Acupuncture, on the other hand, works through the body’s energy systems, aiming to restore internal balance and support broader wellbeing.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best option depends on what you’re dealing with whether it’s physical tightness, chronic pain, hormonal changes, or stress and what kind of treatment style you’re most comfortable with.

If you’re unsure which path to take, speak with a qualified health professional. They can help assess your symptoms and guide you toward the right therapy or even a combination of both.

Whichever route you choose, be sure your practitioner is experienced and properly registered, so you can get the safest and most effective care possible.