(a) For the purpose of this Act, “dry needling”, also known as intramuscular therapy, means an advanced needling skill or technique limited to the treatment of myofascial pain, using a single use, single insertion, sterile filiform needle (without the use of heat, cold, or any other added modality or medication), that is inserted into the skin or underlying tissues to stimulate trigger points. Dry needling may apply theory based only upon Western medical concepts, requires an examination and diagnosis, and treats specific anatomic entities selected according to physical signs. Dry needling does not include the teaching or application of acupuncture described by the stimulation of auricular points, utilization of distal points or non-local points, needle retention, application of retained electric stimulation leads, or other acupuncture theory.
     (b) A physical therapist or physical therapist assistant licensed under this Act may only perform dry needling after completion of requirements, as determined by the Department by rule, that meet or exceed the following: (1) 50 hours of instructional courses that include, but are not limited to, studies in the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular system, the anatomical basis of pain mechanisms, chronic and referred pain, myofascial trigger point theory, and universal precautions; (2) completion of at least 30 hours of didactic course work specific to dry needling; (3) successful completion of at least 54 practicum hours in dry needling course work; (4) completion of at least 200 supervised patient treatment sessions; and (5) successful completion of a competency examination. Dry needling shall only be performed by a licensed physical therapist or licensed physical therapist assistant.
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