I fully support the Board in establishing through rulemaking the same requirements that have been in place in Virginia for more than 5 years.  I completely support continuing the practice of Dry Needling by fully-trained PTs.  I do not agree with other comments stating that a necessity for all who conduct trigger point Dry Needling to complete the full term of study required for acupuncture.  Dry Needling is not acupuncture; it is limited in application and is used exclusively for the purpose of muscle spasm or dysfunction. 

Because Dry Needling is limited in application (trigger points only, not as deep, not for relaxation, etc.), PTs should not require the same amount of training as an acupuncturist (PTs already complete an extensive training and internship regimen).   Arguing otherwise would lead to the conclusion that only an MD could treat patients.  PAs, RNs, Nurse Practitioners, PTs and other specialists all complete different levels of medical training to treat patients, but they do not pretend to be doctors.  Pharmacists can give injections--but they are not medical doctors or nurses.  PTs and chiropractors both manipulate the spine, but use (vastly) different technique to relieve pain.

I have a keen interest in the result of this regulatory action.  I have been a patient of PT and other rehabilitative medical care for many years for chronic back pain, stiffness, weakness and restricted motion.  I have received excellent PT care for almost years, while simultaneously receiving treatments from a chiropractor and massage therapist.  I sought all three providers because they all bring different skills and expertise to bear in reducing my pain and enhancing my mobility.  All of the PTs who have provided Dry Needling have been  very qualified; I have never had a medical problem with any dry needling--and often this method has released tightness that could not be easily released by "normal" manual therapy. 

Respectfully, Jon Claus