PT's have been applying dry needling for > 20 years. PT's have a doctorate education, strong knowledge of the human anatomy, and understanding of pathophysiology.

Dry needling is NOT acupuncture nor is it trying to be acupuncture. It is a different treatment rationale and purpose. 

Artists and architects both use pencils. Just because an artist uses a pencil it does not make him an architect or assume he is one. 

Just like manipulations are not chiropractic, needles are not acupuncture.