Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture: A Licensed Acupuncturist’s Guide to the Differences
Here is a chart summarizing the main differences between the different types of ‘acupuncture’ and what to look for in your search. Practitioners may have multiple titles. Board exams are state dependent and may differ.
Acupuncture has become increasingly popular in recent years—but what many people don’t realize is that not all acupuncture is the same. While the practice originated thousands of years ago as a central part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), today you’ll find a wide range of services labeled “acupuncture,” ranging from holistic Eastern approaches to quick, symptom-focused techniques like dry needling. With so many options available, it can be confusing to know what you're actually signing up for—and who’s qualified to deliver it. Whether you're seeking lasting pain relief, curious about ancient, holistic healing, or just want to understand the difference between a Licensed Acupuncturist and other providers offering acupuncture based techniques, this guide will help you choose the approach and practitioner that aligns best with your health goals.
1. Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) – The Gold Standard for Holistic, Traditional Chinese Medicine-Based Care
For the most holistic, personalized care, seek out a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.), Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), or Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc). These practitioners have the most extensive training in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ensuring a well-rounded and deep-rooted approach to healing that can treat all conditions, especially hormonal or fertility issues.
Education & Clinical Training:
Degree: Master’s degree in Acupuncture or Doctorate in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine (3-4 years of full-time study plus additional if Doctor of Acupuncture). DOM includes Chinese Herbal Medicine specialty.
Acupuncture Training/Clinical Hours: 2,500–3,500+ hours of supervised clinical experience with patients. This may include Chinese Herbal Medicine training depending on the degree obtained and the school attended.
Board Exams: 3-4 exams (depending on degree and state), certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
Licensure: Licensed by the State Medical Board; some states require additional exams beyond NCCAOM.
Scope of Practice: Fully holistic TCM-based assessments, including pulse and tongue diagnosis, pattern differentiation, and individualized treatment plans including acupuncture and other TCM modalities like cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, herbs, etc.
Holistic System of Medicine:
Rooted in TCM principles, this approach treats the root cause of disease rather than just managing symptoms. It balances the body’s Qi (vital energy), yin, yang, blood, and organ systems to restore homeostasis and promote natural healing utilizing many modalities to provide the best results. Even in treating pain, other points may be added to also treat the spirit and emotions.
Best For:
Holistic, whole-body healing (beyond just pain relief).
Fertility & hormonal imbalances.
Mental health (anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep issues).
Chronic pain, migraines, and autoimmune conditions.
Digestive health, metabolism, and weight regulation.
2. DABMA (Diplomate of the American Board of Medical Acupuncture) – A Medical Doctor with Limited Acupuncture Training
DABMA-certified doctors are Western-trained physicians (M.D. or D.O.) who complete a short, post-graduate acupuncture training program. While they may incorporate some TCM principles, their primary focus is on integrating acupuncture as a complementary tool within a biomedical framework.
Education & Clinical Training:
Degree: Medical Doctor (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.).
Acupuncture Training: 300-500 hours (compared to an L.Ac.'s 2,500+ hours).
Board Exam: 1 exam from the American Board of Medical Acupuncture (ABMA). May also take NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) board exams depending on the state (check their credentials as this is more TCM specific).
System of Medicine:
DABMAs often use acupuncture for pain management, stress relief, and fertility support but lack in-depth training in TCM pattern diagnosis, herbal medicine, and holistic treatment planning.
Best For:
Pain management and post-surgical recovery.
General stress and anxiety relief.
Not ideal for those seeking deep TCM-based holistic care.
3. Medical Acupuncturist (M.D. or D.O. Without DABMA) – Minimal Acupuncture Training
Some medical doctors and osteopathic doctors offer "medical acupuncture" after completing a short certification course, often through the Helms Medical Institute. These practitioners typically lack extensive TCM training and primarily use acupuncture for symptom relief.
Education & Clinical Training:
Degree: M.D. or D.O.
Acupuncture Training: 100-300 hours (weekend courses or short programs).
Board Exam: None required beyond state medical licensing. May also take NCCAOM board exams depending on the state (check their credentials as this is more TCM specific).
Best For:
Pain relief (back pain, headaches, musculoskeletal issues).
Not a good option for holistic, root-cause healing through TCM.
4. Chiropractors Practicing Acupuncture (D.C.) – Focused on Pain Management
Some chiropractors take short acupuncture training courses and incorporate acupuncture techniques into their practice. Their approach is typically symptom-focused rather than holistic. They do have minimal knowledge of TCM theory.
Education & Clinical Training:
Degree: Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.).
Acupuncture Training: 100-300 hours.
Board Exam: Depends on the state and it is administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Best For:
Pain relief, sports injuries, and muscle tension.
Not suitable for those seeking holistic, TCM-based care.
5. Dry Needling – Trigger Point Acupuncture (Not True Acupuncture)
Dry needling is a Western adaptation of acupuncture used for trigger points and musculoskeletal issues. It is not connected to TCM principles or holistic diagnosis.
Education & Clinical Training:
Degree: Physical Therapist (DPT) or Chiropractor (D.C.).
Training: 25-100 hours (weekend courses).
Board Exam: None for acupuncture, as dry needling is not considered acupuncture.
Best For:
Muscle knots, trigger points, and localized pain relief.
Not suitable for holistic, energy-based healing.
Choosing the Right Practitioner: What to Look For
Here is a quick overview of the differences. Modern approaches and trainings offered for western trained practitioners for acupuncture services are constantly changing. This is as of 2025.
What are their credentials? (Look for Licensed Acupuncturist, Doctor of Oriental Medicine, or Acupuncture Physician for full Eastern Medicine based, holistic TCM care.)
How many hours of acupuncture training have they completed? (L.Ac. or DOM has 2,500+ hours)
Are they board certified by the NCCAOM? They should be.
Final Thoughts: Who Should You See?
For full Traditional Chinese Medicine care, including acupuncture, herbs, and holistic diagnosis → See a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.), DOM, or AP.
For acupuncture from a Western-trained doctor with some TCM influence → A DABMA may be an option, but training is limited.
For musculoskeletal pain or post-surgical recovery → Medical acupuncturists, chiropractors, or dry needling providers can help with symptom relief in the short term.
By understanding these differences, you can make an informed choice and have realistic expectations about your acupuncture experience while ensuring you receive the full benefits. We do not want the power and importance of utilizing the ancient, holistic healing system of Eastern Medicine that most patients are seeking when they are seeking acupuncture to be forgotten or lost in one’s search for true healing and relief.
