As a licensed acupuncturist, it is disturbing to learn of physical therapists (PT) using acupuncture needles on their patients.  While they are trained to use 'trigger and motor points' only, this is one method of needling commonly used by licensed acupuncturists.

Why not let acupuncturists use needles?  Physical therapists have many other tools to help their patients.  The modalities can be used concurrently, but it makes sense to leave the needling to a practitioner that was trained extensively in this technique (thousands of hours, compared to 40 hours plus 54 hours practice).  Even MDs are required a training of 200 hours; it's baffling that the state thinks it's safe for PTs with such little training to needle their patients.
Safety aside, patients have limited resources (often time and money), and it makes sense to give them the best shot of healing.  While PTs may get lucky and have success with their needles, it seems that success with needles is more likely to come from a licensed acupuncturist.  Similarly, I would expect my patients to benefit more from exercises, stretches, etc that are prescribed from their PT than by myself.

While the 'trigger point and motor point' form of needling that is taught to PTs can be effective, in my clinical experience, there are often other needling techniques that are more beneficial with longer standing results.  Sadly, some patients aren't opened to trying "acupuncture" because they tried "dry needling" with their PT and it didn't work. 

Lastly, it seems that insurance companies should want to spend their money wisely.  Wouldn't they rather the patients receive needling from a thoroughly trained practitioner rather than a partially trained one?

PTs have much to offer their patients, and I refer many of my patients to PT as needed.  Leave needling to the acupuncturists, unless of course PTs are willing to go through 4 years of acupuncture school. . .

Sincerely,

Molly B. Shapiro, L.Ac. Dipl. O.M.