Oppose PT dry needling: response to Nicole Clark

While we may agree that no single profession owns a tool or technique, but at the same time, we have to realize that the use of a tool or technique requires appropriate training. PTs lack the required training to practice dry needling which is de facto acupuncture. Worse still, PT profession does not have a governing body to oversee the practice of dry needling by PTs. APTA does not implement any competency exams/tests to assess the knowledge and skill base of dry needling practicing PTs. The current practical exam by PTs have no standardized guidelines to follow and is not overseen by any entity which poses potential harms for the general public. In contrast, to practice acupuncture which include dry needling, you have to pass national exams including a national level standardized practical exam.  

Furthermore, none of the current PT professional schools have dry needling in its formal curriculum; the teaching of dry needling for PTs is largely weekend continuing education courses.