BA logo BA logo text Specializing in Biomedical Acupuncture & Dry Needling

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Biomedical Acupuncture (BMA), which includes dry needling, is the placement of fine needles into soft tissue (not nerves or bones) for a therapeutic purpose. It is the modern application of acupuncture developed from evidence-based medical research. BMA is the scientific study and research process to discover what specific biological mechanisms make acupuncture needlng effective. It studys both the brain and the body with tools such as fMRI, blood analysis, EMG and others to continue to enhance the understanding and therapy of BMA.

Acupuncture needles line

How does Biomedical Acupuncture work?

BMA promotes healing in soft tissue by relieving muscle tension and inflammation via mechanical and biochemical functions.

Mechanical: BMA needles create microscopic holes, allowing blood to flow and carry oxygen to tense muscles. Oxygen helps muscles relax, relieving pressure and pain. BMA stimulates healing by prompting the body to generate healthy tissue.

Biochemical: BMA triggers the release of endorphins and other natural biochemicals into the bloodstream. Biochemicals promote the body’s natural healing response locally and systemically to reduce pain and inflammation, decrease stress, enhance mood, and regulate hormone and immune systems.

Acupuncture dry needling

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a special technique included in BMA used to relieve muscle shortening that causes myofascial pain and trigger points (muscular knots).

X-ray skeleton

How does Biomedical Acupuncture differ from traditional acupuncture?

Traditional forms of acupuncture have existed not only in Asia, but all over the world for thousands of years. Most of these cultures had no contact or prior knowledge of others around the world practicing "acupuncture." What this tells us is that there are universal and biological mechanisms that allow acupuncture to work, and not one specific culture's pre-scientific beliefs.

Skeletal pain

How does Biomedical Acupuncture work with other treatments?

Biomedical Acupuncture generally works in harmony with other treatments, such as prescription drugs, prescribed exercise therapy and massage. In some cases, however, multiple treatment regimens may be incompatible, so it is important to notify us when you undergo other forms of treatment.

Acupuncture face

Does Biomedical Acupuncture hurt?

Everybody’s sensation of pain is different. Sometimes, you can feel a muscle burn when an acupuncture needle is inserted. When the needle unlocks a muscle tissue, you may feel a twitch or spasm. Releasing the muscle relieves pain.

Actpuncture steril needles

Does acupuncture cause bleeding?

Sometimes acupuncture causes a small amount of bleeding from the place of needle insertion.


  • "...I started getting acupuncture after I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. As an osteopathic medical student, I’ve learned every part of the body is connected... [Acupuncture] calms the stress mechanisms and helps the body rebalance."

    Karen Fried, VCOM 2011
  • "For 20 years I suffered chronic muscle pain in my hips and legs... I tried everything from medication to physical therapy... to no avail. Two years ago I decided to give acupuncture with John a try. The results were amazing! ...Never before have I
    ever been truly pain free."

  • "I have had chronic migraines for the last 6-7 years. Over-the-counter medication began to lose its effectiveness... [Acupuncture] allowed me to get back to a normal, healthy life, free from side effects of medications and the strain they put on the body."

    Sarah Burleson, Blacksburg, Va.