To become an Athletic trainer an individual must have both an undergraduate and a graduate degree. They have a vast understanding of anatomy and physiology and how two things allow the body to function as a unit. In addition to having two degrees Athletic trainer are required to maintain an update their knowledge base by Completing continuing education units that are reported every two years.

Athletic trainers are taught other invasive procedures such as suturing, IV and how to give injections in their education programs. Athletic trainers are taught proper sanitation procedures to perform these procedures to reduce the risk of infections.

Dry needling is a for of treatment that focuses on trigger points in muscles. By treating the trigger points we can decrease pain and increase function. Whereas acupuncture focuses on the meridians of the body. Yes, both use needles in their treatment, but the applications and outcomes are different.

Athletic trainer with the proper training along with the education they acquired they are well qualified to use dry needling in their practices to achieve the desired outcomes of decreased pain and increased function.

With this understanding I support athletic trainers use of dry needling in patient care and support this amendment