First and foremost 'dry-needling' initially began when MDs used empty hypodermic needles to release hypertonic muscles. This technique has been hijacked by PTs who now use filaform needles - conveniently called so to circumvent what they really are: FDA regulated acupuncture needles. While highly trained, PTs are absolutely lacking in knowledge of the function, location and needling techniques used by acupuncturists. This is dangerous for the public and can and has resulted in issues such as pneumothorax. It is simplistic and misguided of PTs to say this is not acupuncture. It absolutely is, as needling to release hypertonic muscles and tender spots is just one of many needling techniques. The fact that they do not recognize this, demonstrates their lack of education on this topic. Most states now require acupuncturists to have 3,000+ didactic education, in addition to 1,000+ clinical hours. This trumps the meagar requirements set forth in Virginia and puts the public at risk and denigrates licensed acupuncturists, who put forth as much time and study into their profession as PTs.