I am writing to express my strong support for the approval of athletic trainers performing dry needling based on their comprehensive training and clinical experience. As an advocate for both the advancement of healthcare practices and the well-being of athletes, I firmly believe that athletic trainers are uniquely qualified to perform dry needling as part of their treatment arsenal.

Athletic trainers undergo extensive education and hands-on experience to manage musculoskeletal injuries and enhance recovery, including specialized training in injury assessment, rehabilitation, and pain management techniques. In recent years, dry needling has emerged as an effective modality for relieving pain and improving the range of motion in individuals with musculoskeletal conditions. Given their depth of knowledge in these areas, athletic trainers are well-equipped to perform dry needling safely and effectively.

Moreover, athletic trainers are often the first line of care for athletes and active individuals. Their ability to incorporate dry needling into their practice would expand their toolkit for addressing complex and painful musculoskeletal issues in real-time, improving patient outcomes and reducing recovery times. These benefits are particularly important in settings such as sports teams, rehabilitation clinics, and other environments where quick and effective treatment is critical.

It is essential to recognize the rigorous education and certification process that athletic trainers undergo, which prepares them to perform a wide range of interventions with a focus on patient safety. Many athletic trainers have already completed specialized post-graduate training in dry needling, further demonstrating their competence and readiness to incorporate this technique into their practice. With proper regulatory oversight, there is no reason to believe that athletic trainers cannot perform dry needling with the same level of safety and proficiency as other licensed healthcare professionals who currently utilize the modality.

I urge you to consider the benefits of allowing athletic trainers to perform dry needling and to approve this practice based on the extensive training and clinical expertise they possess. This will not only enhance the care available to athletes and patients but also ensure that athletic trainers can continue to provide the highest standard of care possible.

Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter. I am confident that this decision will benefit both athletic trainers and the communities they serve.

Sincerely, 

Shawn Crawford, CEO

Collaborative Health Partners