The Facts on Training Requirements

LACs (Licensed Acupuncturists) Requirements to obtain M.S. (Master of Science) degree in Acupuncture

- at least 1905+ hours (1245 hours didactic, 660 hours clinical) http://www.acaom.org/documents/accreditation_manual_712.pdf

NOTE: Most ACAOM credited schools far surpass those requirements to 1500 hours didactic 1200 hours clinical.
 

MDs/DOs (Medical Doctor / Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) Requirements to become a Fellow in Medical Acupuncture and perform Dry Needling / Acupuncture

- 220 hours of formal training (120 hours didactic, 100 hours clinical)

- 5+ years of western medical experience or board certified in their specialty

- 4+ years of clinical acupuncture experience

AAMA (American Academy of Medical Acupuncture), the only recognized MD/DO acupuncture association by the AMA (American Medical Association).  http://www.medicalacupuncture.org/ForPhysicians/Membership/BecomeaFellow.aspx

Physical Therapists in Virginia requirements to perform Dry Needling Acupuncture

- 54 hours (54? hours didactic, 0? hours clinical)

If you aren't willing to allow your loved one to be treated with acupuncture needles by a PT with 54 hours of didactic instruction....  then you shouldn't allow Virginians to be treated by PTs either.