I have experienced both acupuncture and dry needling many times.  Although the needles may be the same, they are two completely different therapies. I totally trust the physical therapists because of their extensive training. The purpose, techniques, and outcomes with dry needling have no common ground with acupuncture. I find it odd that acupuncturists are threatened by this proposal. Anyone in health care should understand there is a place for a wide range of therapies and recognize the differences. Dry needling by a physical therapist has given me quality life again when no other therapies worked, including acupuncture. Based on comments I am reading, it appears many acupuncturists are not understanding dry needling beyond inserting a needle in someone. It is only because of the in-depth training a physical therapist receives that I am willing to have the dry needling done. I would never consider having it done by an acupuncturist. I am thrilled that VA supports dry needling by physical therapists. As it becomes more known, I see the dry needling solving many issues that no one else has been able to solve for chronic pain patients. Yes, I support dry needling by physical therapists!