Trigger Point Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling: Discover Muscle Pain Relief at Inland Northwest Acupuncture

Muscle pain can be persistent, frustrating, and difficult to manage without specialized care. At Inland Northwest Acupuncture, we offer a powerful and effective approach to muscle pain relief through trigger point acupuncture, a technique often referred to as dry needling.

This muscle-based acupuncture approach targets tight knots and dysfunctional muscle fibers using precise acupuncture needling. Our licensed acupuncturists have advanced training in both traditional acupuncture and modern musculoskeletal pain treatment, allowing us to address complex pain conditions with accuracy and care.

By combining the precision of acupuncture with a targeted trigger point release approach, we help patients seeking alternative medicine solutions achieve lasting muscle pain relief.

Acupuncturists Know the Secrets to Muscle Pain Relief

Trigger point acupuncture and dry needling are often misunderstood or used interchangeably, yet both offer powerful solutions for managing chronic muscle pain. When performed by properly trained practitioners, these techniques can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function.

Understanding how these treatments work—and the training behind them—can help you make an informed decision about your pain care.

What Is Trigger Point Acupuncture?

Trigger point acupuncture is a specialized technique that focuses on specific areas of muscle tension known as trigger points. These points often feel like tight knots and can cause localized pain or refer pain to other parts of the body.

During treatment, thin acupuncture needles are inserted directly into these trigger points to:

• Release muscle tension
• Improve circulation
• Promote healing
• Restore normal muscle function

This approach blends Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with modern knowledge of muscle physiology. Trigger point acupuncture is especially effective for:

• Chronic muscle pain
• Sports injuries
• Neck, shoulder, and back pain
• Musculoskeletal disorders

Many patients report immediate relief, reduced stiffness, and improved range of motion following treatment.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling, also known as intramuscular stimulation, is a technique commonly used by physical therapists. Like trigger point acupuncture, it targets myofascial trigger points to relieve muscle pain and dysfunction.

The primary difference between dry needling and trigger point acupuncture lies in training, licensing, and treatment philosophy:

• Dry needling is based primarily on Western anatomical and neurophysiological models
• It is typically taught as a post-graduate skill within physical therapy programs

Both techniques require a solid understanding of anatomy and muscle pathology, but the depth of education and scope of practice differ significantly.

Training Requirements: Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling

Acupuncture Training

Licensed acupuncturists complete extensive education and clinical training. Board certification through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) requires rigorous standards.

Acupuncture training includes:

• 2,000–3,000 total training hours
• Coursework in:
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine theory
  • Diagnosis and treatment planning
  • Acupuncture techniques and point location
  • Chinese herbology
  • Western biomedical sciences
• Extensive clinical training, often exceeding 1,000 supervised clinical hours

Our providers at Inland Northwest Acupuncture completed over 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical training during their master’s degree programs.

Physical Therapist Training for Dry Needling

Physical therapists who practice dry needling must complete post-graduate certification, which varies by state and program.

Typical dry needling certification includes:

• 30–50 hours of coursework and hands-on training
• Instruction in anatomy, needle techniques, safety protocols, and application

While effective, this training is significantly shorter and more limited in scope than acupuncture education.

Specialized Acupuncture Training at Inland Northwest Acupuncture

At Inland Northwest Acupuncture, our practitioners receive advanced, specialized training in trigger point acupuncture to ensure safe, effective, and results-driven pain relief.

Our approach integrates:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Modern Western anatomy and physiology
• Advanced trigger point identification
• Individualized treatment strategies

This comprehensive training allows us to precisely target muscle dysfunction and tailor care to each patient’s unique condition.

“The combination of my massage therapy and acupuncture training allows me to offer a unique and effective approach to pain management,”
— Megan Matulis, Licensed Acupuncturist, East Asian Medical Practitioner & Founder, Inland Northwest Acupuncture

What to Expect After Trigger Point Acupuncture Treatment

After treatment, patients commonly describe sensations similar to those experienced after a deep tissue massage. Mild to moderate muscle soreness is normal and typically lasts one to two days.

To support recovery and maximize results, we recommend:

• Staying well hydrated to help flush toxins released during treatment
• Applying moist heat to relax muscles and reduce soreness
• Gentle stretching or light movement to improve circulation and ease tension

Following these post-treatment guidelines helps enhance healing and overall well-being.

Ready to Relieve Chronic Muscle Pain with Acupuncture?

If you’re considering trigger point acupuncture or dry needling, we recommend:

• Consulting with a state-licensed, board-certified acupuncturist
• Sharing your complete medical history and current pain concerns
• Following post-treatment care instructions
• Planning for a series of 4–6 treatments for optimal results

Are you ready to move forward?
Schedule a free phone consultation with our expert trigger point practitioners at Inland Northwest Acupuncture and take the next step toward effective, lasting muscle pain relief.