The Original Medicine Podcast

Dry Needling: Not Worth the Risk


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In this episode of The Original Medicine Podcast, MG McCullough examines dry needling and explains why it presents significant risks while offering limited long-term benefit. As public interest in alternative health grows, dry needling is often mistaken for acupuncture; this episode aims to close that knowledge gap by clarifying how they differ in training, philosophy, and safety.

Understanding "information asymmetry" and why brief weekend courses for dry needling cannot replace years of supervised clinical training.

The dangers of aggressive needling in sensitive areas like the neck and chest, including the risk of pneumothorax.

Why dry needling relies on muscle trauma for temporary relief, while classical Chinese medicine seeks to understand why the tension exists.

How blood and internal resources are essential for nourishing muscles and fascia—a key principle often ignored by dry needling.

Why randomized controlled trials often fail to capture the individualized nature of true acupuncture.

Encouraging a shift away from "forcing change" toward restoring systemic balance.

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The Original Medicine PodcastBy MG McCullough