Course Description:

This course will be an introduction to dry needling, a technique used to treat pain and musculoskeletal dysfunction of the lower quarter region by inserting thin, filiform needles into specific trigger points in the body. Participants will learn contradictions, precautions, risks, and benefits. Participants will also learn the basic principles and techniques of dry needling, including safety considerations, needle insertion, and manipulation techniques. 
 The course will review the anatomy and proposed physiology of trigger points, as well as the underlying theories with special focus on the evidence-based practices that support dry needling. Participants will have the opportunity to practice identifying trigger points and inserting needles to treat areas in the lower extremity only. Electrical stimulation will be discussed and demonstrated. 
This course will provide review of evidence of dry needling and how to integrate into patient plan of care. The course will utilize a test treat re-test model to help drive dry needling techniques and then include discussion on how to follow up and determine other appropriate interventions. 
Participants completing this course will have an understanding of dry needling, practice acts, history and will be prepared to implement into clinical practice for musculoskeletal disorders and pain modulation. This course is suitable for physical therapists who are interested in learning dry needling to implement into clinical practice with consideration of evidence-based care.