Physical therapists certified in dry needling of muscle trigger points are dramatically improving the lives of large numbers of patients who formerly had no hope of relief from the many faces of chronic myofascial pain and dysfunction.

The technique requires precise placement of a needle into trigger points in the involved muscles. This procedure has absolutely no similarity to the technique of acupuncture. Thus, I do not understand why there is a conflict. (Also, I have never seen a physical therapist trained in dry needling release of trigger points who has any interest in acupuncture).

I have been involved in the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial disorders for 13 years, and I extensively utilize the dry needling services of licensed physical therapists certified in dry needling. In my experience the best trained practitioners for myofascial release are physical therapists certified in dry needling. Virginia medical communities, and Virginia patients afflicted with myofascial pain and dysfunction, should not lose this valuable resource.

Trigger points and myofascial dysfunction are muscle disorders. The experts in muscle anatomy, physiology, function, and pathology are physical therapists. Physical therapists with subspecialty certification in dry needling should continue to be allowed to access the trigger points in the involved muscles of their specialty, with any type of needle that is consistent with their dry needling certification training.

Where am I to send my patients who need dry needling, if the physical therapists to whom I refer patients are not allowed to use the needles of their choice to access the involved muscles?

William S. Teachey M.D.

Past President, Virginia Beach Medical Society