Currently in Virginia, physical therapists with adeequate training are performing Trigger Point Dry Needling.  I am in suport of the Board moving forward with permanent regulations to ensure this modality is performed safely by PTs.  Physical Therapists are highly educated and trained Medical Professionals who specialize in treating the Neurological, Muscular and Skeletal movement systems via many modalities and Dry Needling is one such modality. Physical Therapists possess the anatomical, physiological and clinical knowledge to perform Trigger point Dry needling safely and effectively. Mmany accupunturists are in opposition, but physical therapists are not trying to do accupuncture.  They are merely using the same device/needles to target muscular trigger points.  Trigger point Dry Needling specifically addresses hyperirritable loci in the muscle tissue to elicit a physiological response directly in the target muscle tissue to enhance and progress treatments performed by the Physical Therapists. This response is similar to the response elicited by other treatment modalities frequently utilized by Physical Therapists.

Unless there is some evidence that physical therapists are performing this modality unsafely, we should not stop this practice, as many patients are reaping the benefits. It is absolutely within the scope of practice of physical therapy to treat muscular trigger points.  And Trigger Point Dry Needling is one method of doing so.

Thank you.