Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) is NOT acupuncture and the science behind this manual therapy technique is fundamentally different from that of eastern medicine's traditional acupuncture.  The Board of PT in VA did their due diligence when defining the certification and documentation process for TDN by PTs.  With the rising costs of healthcare, it is absurd to go backwards and try to "take away" this manual therapy technique from PTs who have undergone a rigorous certification process.  Patients have the option of seeking out traditional medicine practices (physical therapy) as well as complimentary medicine (acupuncture).  It is ridiculous to even consider "taking away" the option of PTs providing TDN, a manual therapy technique that is based on a science-based physiological response/mechanism that has been shown to be effective.  Here is a link (just one sample of many) supporting TDN for treatment of Neck Pain: http://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/News/2015/3/20/DryNeedlingNeckPain/