Most people have heard of acupuncture even if they've never tried it. And many assume that dry needling and acupuncture are the same thing. Well, there are definite similarities. Both treatments use small, stainless steel needles that are inserted into the skin and are used to treat pain. However, acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and helps by opening up a person's energy flow or chi. Dry needling has not been around nearly that long — only a few decades and is also known as trigger point therapy.

So, What Is It?

Sessions are considered dry needling as the small needles used to not inject anything into your body. Instead, they are inserted into specific areas, known as trigger points, in order to relieve knotted or hard muscles. It is also sometimes referred to as intramuscular stimulation. The goal of the treatment is to release the knots or stop spasms so you have relief from your chronic pain. Sessions last from about 10-30 minutes. You will not need to undress completely, but the area that is being treated does need to be uncovered for the treatment.

Who Does These Sessions?

This technique is usually performed by trained physical therapists and is only performed in those states where it is allowed as treatment. Not all physical therapists are trained in this method as it is not part of their core curriculum, but rather a course and process learned apart from their normal education.

Will It Help?

Right now it does not appear that dry needling is a stand-alone method of pain relief. That is, it is often combined with other therapies or treatments in order to get you the best possible result. The research seems promising, however, as with most newer methods, there needs to be more of it. The bottom line is that if you are suffering and are not afraid of needles, why not give it a try? Risks are low, and if it can help relieve your pain even a little, it might be worth it.

_{[Image via Shutterstock]}