Dry needling is not acupuncture. The only similarity is the "dry" needle but the technique and purpose of the treatments are different. The difference is that acupuncture treats for the purpose of altering the flow of energy along traditional Chinese meridians while dry needling follows evidence-based guidelines, recommended “trigger point” locations, and dosages with the goals of addressing neuromuscular conditions, reducing pain, and increasing range of motion.

Physical therapists have extensive knowledge in human anatomy and physiology that is acquired in their entry level education. This knowledge is supplemented with further post graduate education and training in dry needling. They are required to obtain a specific amount of hours per state regulations in order to use dry needling in practice.  It is within the scope of PT practice to perform dry needling and I believe the regulations are appropriate.