I support athletic trainers in Virginia practicing dry needling.

Athletic trainers are experts in musculoskeletal care, of which the foundation is knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. That same knowledge of human anatomy and physiology are key in the safe and effective use of dry needling. The use of this modality by trained individuals will greatly enhance patient care and outcomes.

There are multiple states that already allow athletic trainers to practice dry needling, Arizona, Maryland, and Kentucky, just to name a few. All of these require athletic trainers to complete appropriate educational courses in dry needling as well as having physician approval to apply the modality. Approval of athletic trainers utilizing dry needling in Virginia would follow these same guidelines, which would protect the public from untrained individuals practicing this skill. In addition, the dry needling education courses are most often marketed to physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trainers, all of whom treat patients who would benefit from this particular modality.

For those stating that dry needling and acupuncture are the same, the Cleveland Clinic has a great article that succinctly shows they are not the same.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-needling-vs-acupuncture