Why Choosing an Acupuncturist is Safer and More Effective than a Dry Needler.

Acupuncturist applying needles for back pain relief.

In recent years, dry needling has gained popularity as a way to treat muscle pain and tightness in Portland, OR. In the state of Oregon it is still illegal for anyone accept a licensed acupuncturist to treat using dry needling or acupuncture. While it may seem similar to acupuncture on the surface, both use thin, sterile needles inserted into the body, the truth is, they are very different approaches to pain relief and healing.

At Stumptown Acupuncture, I often hear patients ask:

"Is there a difference between acupuncture and dry needling?" The answer is yes and it matters more than you might think.

In this post, I'll explore why choosing a licensed acupuncturist is often the safer, more effective, and more holistic choice for pain relief and longevity.

1. Training & Expertise: Acupuncturists Are the True Needle Specialists

Acupuncturists complete 2,000–3,000+ hours of graduate-level training in Chinese medicine, anatomy, physiology, and needle technique. We also undergo clinical internships and must pass rigorous national board exams to become licensed.

By contrast, most dry needling practitioners (often physical therapists or chiropractors) complete a weekend workshop or 20–80 hours of training before they begin using needles. In many states, this is legally allowed but it doesn’t compare to the depth of training required of an acupuncturist. Acupuncturists are trained to use needles safely, skillfully, and holistically.

2. Treating the Root, Not Just the Symptoms

Dry needling focuses on trigger points tight bands of muscle ("knots") that can cause pain and is just one small aspect that acupuncture encompasses. The goal is typically short-term relief of muscular tension.

As acupuncturists we practice dry needling as well but acupuncture goes further. We not only treat muscle "knots", we also treat the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and immune systems . We don’t just treat the pain we seek to understand why the pain is happening in the first place. Using a blend of traditional Chinese diagnostics and modern biomedical understanding, we create personalized treatment plans that address root imbalances, not just symptoms. Acupuncture is designed to support your whole-body health not just relieve pain.

3. A Broader, More Holistic Approach to Healing

Licensed acupuncturists are trained in a wide range of healing tools, including:

• Cupping therapy

• Gua sha (myofascial release)

• Chinese herbal medicine

• Moxibustion (infrared heat therapy)

• Lifestyle and nutritional counseling

Dry needling is just one technique. Acupuncture brings a whole system of medicine 

4. Safer Needling Practices: Acupuncturists; safer more effective than dry needlers.

Because of their limited training, dry needlers may not always have the same level of anatomical understanding or hands-on needle practice as an acupuncturist. Research shows that dry needlers have higher rates of adverse events. The rate of adverse events per treatment is significantly higher for dry needling (36.7%) compared to acupuncture (7%). Side effects like:

• Bruising

• Pain

• Bleeding

• In rare cases, punctured organs (e.g., lung collapse)

Licensed acupuncturists are trained extensively in safe needling depths, clean technique, and patient anatomy to reduce risks and maximize comfort. When it comes to your health, safety matters.

5. Best for Chronic and Complex Conditions

Dry needling may help with acute muscle pain or sports injuries, but acupuncture excels in treating more complex, chronic conditions such as:

• Back and neck pain

• Migraines and tension headaches

• Insomnia

• Anxiety and stress

• Digestive disorders

• Hormonal imbalances

• Fatigue and burnout

At Stumptown Acupuncture, we take the time to understand your full health picture and design treatments that evolve as you do. We’re not just here for a quick fix, we’re here for your longevity and wellbeing.

Final Thoughts: Choose a Trusted Expert

If you’re considering dry needling, ask yourself:

Would you rather have a technique or a whole medical system?

Acupuncturists; safer more effective than dry needlers.

At Stumptown Acupuncture, we blend the wisdom of Chinese medicine with evidence-based care to help you feel better, move better, and thrive. Whether you’re dealing with pain, stress, or a chronic condition, we’re here to support your healing journey, safely and holistically. Needle therapy should be more than a quick fix. It should be thoughtful, precise, and rooted in real experience.

Ready to work with Portland’s licensed acupuncture professionals?

Book your appointment today and feel the difference.