Dry Needling - FAQ's
Dry Needling has become increasingly popular as a form of treatment in Physical Therapy. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) related to Dry Needling.
Is Dry Needling different from acupuncture?
Yes, although both Dry Needling and Acupuncture use monofilament needles, Acupuncture focuses on the flow of ‘chi’ aka flow of energy along meridians. The aim of Acupuncture helps to create balance in your body by applying the needles along these meridian ‘pathways’. There may be several meridians used at a time. The purpose, application, and reimbursement of the treatment is different to Dry Needling.
Dry Needling focuses on relieving trigger points (hyperirritable nodules in a muscle). Trigger points cause pain and tightness in muscles leading to reduced range of motion. The Physical Therapist at our clinic will use the monofilament needle to insert into the trigger point to specifically relieve the areas of pain. Once this muscle fiber is stimulated the muscle starts to relax, enabling reduction in pain and increased range of motion.
Is Dry Needling covered by insurance?
Unfortunately, insurance does not cover the use of Dry Needling in practice for several reasons. The main reason being that insurance companies deem Dry Needling not medically necessary and/or considered an exploratory treatment. Because Medicare is deemed the gold standard all other insurances follow these guidelines.
My Medicare Rep or the research I have found says that Dry Needling is covered. Why is it that it is still not covered?
Medicare states that ‘Acupuncture (Dry Needling) can be performed by anyone that has been certified and passed an exam conducted by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.’
Medicare, therefore, only reimburses for acupuncture specifically done by an Acupuncturist (accredited with the NCCAOM) and this is only specifically for the treatment of chronic low back pain.
Our Therapist is not accredited with this Acupuncture society and is accredited in Dry Needling only, which is not covered by insurance under this qualification. Additionally, because Medicare is deemed the gold standard all other insurances follow these guidelines.