I am opposed to Physical Therapists being allowed to do “dry needling” with a short course. This is more reflective of a need to protect and expand their reimbursement, rather than in consideration of what would be good for the public/patients.

Proficiency does not automatically grant privilege, nor should it. Acupuncturists also learn about anatomy and physiology, we are safe and effective using needles. This does not mean that Acupuncturists should take short courses and then be able to administer flu shots or cortisone injections. It does not mean that Acupuncturists should be trained in electro-diagnostic testing, even though there is similarity in gauge with acupuncture needles, and there is similarity in placement with Acupuncture points.

“Dry needling” that is currently being taught and used by some Physical Therapists is not true to the original definition and practice of dry needling by Physicians, it is in fact, the practice of Acupuncture. True dry needling is done with a hollow bore needle into specific, localized areas, it is a relatively aggressive technique. Some acupuncturists also may do this. If you look on the internet, the ”dry needling” demonstrated by Physical Therapists includes paraspinal needling with electrical stimulation—this is absolutely Electro-Acupuncture and not dry needling. This is a common practice in Acupuncture.

This adapted “Dry needling” technique is also taught to nurses, athletic trainers, and Chiropractors. I believe that this will have some unintended consequences of reducing the practice of Acupuncture to a 15 minute modality or technique, and will open the door to many providers without long term supervision; which in the long run will be a safety issue. This will create a detriment to the Acupuncture profession and diminish it in the public consciousness.

As Physical Therapists on the internet describe the differences between dry needling and Acupuncture- they cite that what they do relies on understanding of science and neuroanatomy—the implication being that Acupuncture is somehow separate from science and neuroanatomy. While Acupuncturists retain the historical and philosophical roots of Asian medicine, and use different terminology, Acupuncture has always embodied an understanding of anatomy and physiology. These Physical Therapists are maligning the practice of Acupuncture and its’ practitioners. They are doing harm.

There is a significant body of scientific research that validates the psychoneuroendocrineimmunological and physiological effects of acupuncture. The NIH consensus statement indicated that there was much more research to support the use of Acupuncture as compared to many currently accepted medical practices.

Physical Therapy owes much to Asian Medicine and Acupuncture without giving due credit. The use of TENS/electrical stimulation comes from the research on Electro-Acupuncture. Gua Sha was appropriated, rebranded, and renamed the Graston Techniques. Physical Therapists have the use of other modalities such as Ultrasound and Laser to affect tissue change, so that their practice and patients are not going to suffer if therapists do not perform dry needling.