I am a 3rd year student in TCM/Acupuncture and undergraduate in Kinesiology, previously pursing Physical Therapy or Athletic Training.  

Despite the argument of Physical Therapists stating their extensive background with anatomy. Dry needling should not be within a physical therapist's scope of practice. The integrity of the acupuncture medicine should be taken into account as the hours accumulated and theory discussed is integral to the well-being of the patient. If anyone is to practice with the insertion of needles, there needs to be NOT ONLY stricter regulation but understanding of the roots of the medicine. Examples could be multiple week/hour courses, practical testing, and extensive written exams...or Acupuncture School.

We enter a slippery slope where the regulations are quite minimal. We understand that as a physical therapist you go through multiple years/hours/courses for your profession but we the same for Acupuncturist. There are PT's I know that seek to integrate acupuncture, go to a university to get accreditation to insert needles. You may also get your previous extensive western science waived/transferred, which is valid due to your profession knowledge of anatomy. But understand, the clinical hours are necessary and we do not want to see the medicine simplified to ONLY musculoskeletal.

The same could be said for Acupuncturist to be Physical Therapist, we don't expect to simplify your medicine by going to a weekend CEU course. We expect the same standard and pride in your craft that you see with Acupuncture. Thank you.