Learning Objectives:

Upon completion this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Compare and contrast Dry Needling and Acupuncture.

2. Describe the state specific Dry Needling regulations of the state practice act.

3. Summarize the components of the APTA Position on Dry Needling by a Physical Therapist.

4. List three effects dry needling has on the chemical composition of trigger points.

5. Describe the effects of dry needling on trigger points.

6. Describe the effects of dry needling on pain.

7. Describe safe handling and disposal of bio-hazardous waste such as needles.

8. From the APTA’s Description of Dry Needling in Clinical Practice, list indications for dry needling 

9. From the APTA’s Description of Dry Needling in Clinical Practice, list relative contraindications to dry needling.

10. From the APTA’s Description of Dry Needling in Clinical Practice, Identify five absolute contraindications to dry needling.

11. List five potential risks associated with dry needling.

12. List adverse events identified in the 2001 study by White et al.

13. Implement an emergency action plan and provide adverse response care after recognizing ANY serious adverse event causing limitation of the neurological, pulmonary, vascular, or musculoskeletal system.

14. Safely and proficiently perform dry needling to the following areas: cranio-facial, cervical, shoulder girdle, elbow, wrist, hand, lumbar, sacroiliac, hip, knee, ankle, foot.