I've been performing dry needling to patients the past few years and see positive results.  The 54 hours required to perform dry needling are in addition to the extensive musculoskeletal training in graduate level of eduction for physical therapy, which was also in addition to the undergraduate training.  Physical therapists also receive multiple training for palpating skills and continue to perform the clinic.  Dry needling is not acupuncture despite using the same supplies.  I highly support dry needling to be performed by physical therapists.