PT training is incomplete to be utilizing needling theory in practice. Acupuncturists study 3-4 years and have over 1,000 hours of clinical experience in Masters and Doctoral level programs before graduation and sitting licensure exams. Some PTs train only a few weekends in dry needling before they begin needling patients. 

Dry needling IS acupuncture. Acupuncture is outside of the scope of practice of physical therapy. When physical therapists perform dry needling, they are utilizing acupuncture tools and employing acupuncture theories contained within the scope of practice of acupuncture pertinent to tendon and muscle sinew channels. Acupuncturists of ancient times, like modern physical therapists, were aware of the anatomy and the same functional disorders which are treated by what PTs call "dry needling." It is actually ancient acupuncture theory. 

Dry needling is ILLEGAL under VA Law. The General Assembly never intended for PTs to be using dry needling in their scope of practice.

Dry needling confuses the consumer and damages real acupuncture. Just because PTs say that dry needling isn't acupuncture, it doesn't mean that their techniques are not affecting acupuncture channels and systems. This is dangerous at worst and ineffective at best. The consumer who receives dry needling usually assumes they are getting a same or similar service as an acupuncture treatment. If dry needling doesn't help them, they would be then less likely to seek out a qualified acupuncturist to treat their problem, since they now have the concept that "acupuncture doesn't work for them." Alternatively, if dry needling helps them, they may assume that PTs have equivalent knowledge to acupunturist and that no further benefit would be available to them from a qualified acupuncturist. 

Physical therapists should keep their treatment within their own scope of practice. Real acupuncture is safe and effective because acupuncturists are adequately trained to use acupuncture needles. If PTs wish to practice acupuncture, they should seek the 3-4 year Masters or Doctorate level acupuncture educucation and pursue a license by taking the 4 board exams offered through the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.