Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Medicine
 
chapter
Regulations Governing the Licensure of Athletic Trainers [18 VAC 85 ‑ 120]
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4/29/25  6:20 pm
Commenter: Sharone Franzen, LAc

Dry Needling is the same as acupuncture
 

 I heartily oppose athletic trainers doing dry needling.  It is in practice the same as acupuncture.  While acupuncturists in all states receive 4 years of training, athletic trainers and physical therapists can get certified after only a few hours of training. ALL of the dangerous accidents due to acupuncture (ie pneumothorax) in this country have been the result of "dry needling" or acupuncture performed by non-acupuncturists.

Patients deserve to  receive safe treatments performed by qualified professionals.  If trainers and physical therapists want to treat patients with acupuncture, they should go to acupuncture school and pass their state's board exams.  It is the government's duty to assure this safety.

Thank you,

Sharone Franzen

CommentID: 233978