Dry needling refers to a therapeutic technique based on Western medical principles utilizing a solid filament needle to help resolve pain associated with: trigger points in muscles, inflammation, contracture/muscle shortening, tissue adhesion and/or swelling. 

How does dry needling work?
When a needle enters the tissues, it causes mild trauma which triggers an increase in blood flow, oxygen & nutrients to the area. This speeds up the inflammatory process, allowing the body to heal faster.  The needles also stimulate the production of the body’s natural pain killers called endorphins.  In addition, this treatment stimulates changes in the body to inhibit (turn off) the sensation of pain in the affected area.

What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Acupuncture: is an ancient oriental healing technique developed 2,500 years ago and is based on meridian channels and flow of energy or “qi” in the body.  Acupuncture alters the body's energy flow into healthier patterns and is used to treat a wide variety of illnesses and health conditions.

Dry Needling: is a medical technique based on neurophysiology and anatomical principles.  Dry needling is primarily used for pain relief is and based on recent understandings in pain science.  It is practiced by some physicians, physical therapists & chiropractors to treat muscle, joint & ligament pain and dysfunction. 
Dry needling practitioners utilize the same needles as acupuncturists and interestingly, there is a considerable overlap between traditional “acupoints” and trigger points used in dry needling.  

Cupping:  Cupping therapy is a method of using small plastic cups applied to the skin to create suctioning effect causing a vacuum.  This vacuum creates an increase in circulation to promote healing in the specific area.  This response also triggers the lymphatic system, clears the blood vessels, stretches and activates the skin.