I am commenting as a licensed Acupuncturist with first-hand experience of the dangers of Dry Needling.

3 yeas ago, a patient of mine was severely injured by a PT who performed Dry Needling by inserting acupuncture needles deeply and perpendicularly along either side of her thoracic spine (commonly known as "back shu" points in Chinese Medicine), and caused a pneumothorax.  She went to the ER and stayed in the hospital for 2 days. It took her 6 months to fully recover.

I have seen many photographs online of so-called "Tirigger Point Dry Needling". It is quite clear that PTs are inserting needles into acupuncture points -- not trigger points -- and even following meridian lines, which I have seen drawn on patients' bodies! I have seen ads for Dry Needling for Bell's Palsy and Facial Rejuvenation among other non-pain conditions. Where are the "Trigger Points"? As PTs claim that they are not taught meridian theory, I can only assume they are learning about these treatments from YouTube videos!

I seriously object to PTs performing Acupuncture, no matter WHAT they call it. And I am deeply offended that my years of training are given such little regard, let alone the DISREGARD for the safety of patients who come to us with their trust.