Our Acupuncture Based Approach
Dry needling is Acupuncture. This technique engages the muscle and nervous system to achieve De Qi (Da Qi) — a therapeutic response indicating muscle release and increased circulation.
While dry needling is sometimes explained using Western trigger-point terminology, this approach has been part of acupuncture practice for thousands of years.
At our Spokane clinic, dry needling and acupuncture are the same treatment — both involve the use of very thin, sterile needles placed in muscles, tendons, or ligaments to release tension, reduce pain, and support your body’s natural healing response. We address the root cause in addition to releasing the muscles and resolving the area(s) of concern.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Patients who try acupuncture often notice initial soreness (close to the feeling after a workout) while quickly finding relief. Patients often choose to continue care because they feel real, noticeable relief and improved movement after their sessions. Even though this technique precisely targets tight or painful muscles, acupuncture more importantly addresses the underlying cause of the dysfunction.
Many patients are surprised by how effective acupuncture can be, especially when other treatments haven’t provided lasting relief.
Our dry needling approach is rooted in the principles of acupuncture and modern clinical understanding of the musculoskeletal system. Treatments are precise, personalized, and focused on helping your body heal itself. Whether you’re dealing with persistent pain, limited movement, or lingering injuries, our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love.
Here’s a summary of clinical evidence demonstrating where acupuncture has shown effectiveness in treating musculoskeletal and myofascial conditions:
Musculoskeletal pain
A review of 13 RCTs found that dry needling significantly improved pain intensity compared with no treatment or sham treatment (short-term) across various body regions. PMC
Chronic neck pain
A meta-analysis of randomized trials showed that dry needling improved both pain and functional capacity in chronic neck pain, especially in the short- and mid-term. PMC
Lower back pain
One study reported that patients receiving dry needling had a strong analgesic (pain-reducing) response. JAMA
Plantar fasciitis / heel pain
Systematic reviews found moderate evidence supporting dry needling’s ability to reduce pain and improve function in plantar fasciitis. PMC
Muscle stiffness / trigger points
A controlled trial showed that after a dry needling session, stiffness in the upper trapezius decreased, and pressure-pain thresholds increased in latent trigger points. PMC
Migraines / cervico-cranial pain
In a randomized controlled trial, dry needling reduced the number of active trigger points and reduced headache intensity compared to control. PMC
(Electrotherapy with Acupuncture)
Modern Technology Meets Ancient Medicine
Electroacupuncture blends the time-tested principles of acupuncture with modern electrical stimulation to enhance results. By applying a low-level current through acupuncture needles, this advanced technique helps awaken the body’s natural healing response, improve circulation, and support quicker, more effective recovery.
Help your body heal with acupuncture-based muscle release therapy.