I strongly support the independent use of Dry Needling by Physical Therapists (PT).  I am an RN and have been in nursing since 1977.  I personally experienced dry needling by my PT and had remarkable results in reduction of muscle spasms, markedly reduced need for narcotics, muscle relaxants, and NSAIDS, with improved mobility.  This was all directly related to dry needling.

  I currently work in a surgical department with an attached Post Anesthesia Care Unit as well as In-Patient post -op care.  Nurses are being trained in the similar Battlefield Acupuncture of the auricle and many have found this to be of significant benefit for patient pain control, earlier mobility, less narcotic requirements (with associated complications), and earlier discharge.  This can be done without a physicians order in many locations.

  PTs are a very educated branch of the medical profession and spend considerable "hands on" time with their patients.  In most cases, much more than a physician.  They are in the best position to determine the needs of the patient for the best prognosis.  They should definitely be able to provide this level of care without a medical referral.

  Appropriate certified training and initial should be a must for this procedure, but PTs should be allowed to work in the best interests of those in their care without additional layers of bureaucracy.