Specialized use of needles in the treatment of illnesses and pain
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been in existence for over 2000 years. Most acupuncturists practice as alternative healthcare providers. They employ centuries old diagnostic procedures to treat ailments from a global approach. In essence, their focus is to bring back to balance the bodies’ function and systems. Classic acupuncture theory does not recognize the western medicine’s diagnosis of headache, radiculopathy, or sciatica. Just like Medical Doctors do not recognize the diagnosis of “an invasion of wind, heat, cold or dampness”.
Given that the practice has stood the test of time and has gained popularity over the last several years; one must admit “it works” for many maladies. The World Health Organization acknowledges the practice and Evidence Based Medicine supports it judicial use.
Dry Needling
Dry Needling is relatively new and emerging physical therapy intervention that is making waves in the ways practitioners can quickly treat and resolve pain and dysfunction. At least by name. The practice involves the placement of needles in points on the body which tend to be very similar to the traditional points of acupuncture. However, by law a physical therapist cannot perform acupuncture. He can however, take some weekend seminars, pay thousands of dollars and then perform dry needling.
Google dry needling and you will see results like this: “Dry needling is the next big thing in physical therapy."
“Next big thing”? It has been around for 2000 years. Acupuncture/Dry needling is an art form and takes years to master. Dr. Alvarado has integrated acupuncture in to his practice for 17 years. And yet he is the first to admit that he is still learning how to best utilize the treatment. No two patients respond exactly the same. Treatment usually has to be modified to be most effective.
Once again, a scientific approach is required to identify the problem, but it takes an artist to properly treat the problem in a safe, effective and expeditious manner. Once again, the question becomes; do you want someone with training from a weekend seminar placing needles in to your body or someone with 17 years of experience?