Dry Needling Level 1 – Part A

Overview

Physiotherapists are increasingly using dry needling for pain management and thereby improving function in conjunction with other physiotherapy approaches. This structured course meets the national APA and AHPRA recommendations for physiotherapists to practice dry needling safely for musculoskeletal conditions and sports injuries. The sound knowledge of indications and contraindications for dry needling requires appropriate assessment and treatment skills.

This course is designed to provide physiotherapists an opportunity to improve knowledge and skills of dry needling, and make them aware of guidelines for safe dry needling practices in a range of musculoskeletal conditions. On completion, participants will have a good knowledge of the theory, research and safety considerations of dry needling.

Dry Needling Physiotherapy Level 1 - Part A is self-paced and consists of seven recorded lectures. These must be completed to receive a Certificate of Attendance. It is also valuable as refresher training or CPD

Part A is a pre-requisite for the Dry Needling for Physiotherapists Level 1 – Part B face-to-face course. Group discussion, presentations and a theory exam during the practical Part B course will assume this knowledge.

Diagram: APA Dry Needling Physiotherapy Level 1

Presenters

Jane Rooney, APAM, FACP

Peter Selvaratnam, APAM, FACP

Learning Outcomes

On completion of Part A, participants will be able to:

Describe the history and theories of dry needling.
Explain the different approaches and indications of dry needling
Identify the difference between acupuncture and dry needling approaches
Explain the research evidence specific to dry needling
Identify the safety considerations including documented side effects relating to dry needling
Describe the precautions and contraindications for dry needling, in order to evaluate patient’s suitability for dry needling