08/08/2025
Acupuncture—a key component of traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine—is a holistic health care system with roots stretching back centuries. Using fine needles, it aims to regulate the flow of ki (or qi) throughout the body, supporting both acute and chronic health concerns. This approach draws on a deep foundation of accumulated practice, knowledge, and clinical wisdom.
Dry needling, by contrast, is a modern technique that focuses solely on relieving muscle pain and tension. It is a treatment method rather than a complete medical system.
In Australia, acupuncture is a regulated health profession. Only practitioners who have completed a recognised degree—typically four years of full-time study in acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine—and are registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) under AHPRA may legally call themselves “acupuncturists.”
Dry needling is not regulated as its own profession. Instead, it is an additional skill that certain registered health professionals—such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and massage therapists—may learn through short training programs. Some courses are as brief as two days, with no nationally standardised licensing requirements.
When choosing a practitioner, it’s important to check their qualifications, level of training, and professional registration to ensure you receive safe and appropriate care.
General Awareness & Education
