Dry needling

Module: Dry needling

• The Dry Needling module provides a comprehensive understanding of how needling can be used as an effective tool in strength training, athletic training and rehabilitation. The module explores the different approaches to dry needling, from evidence-based to more experiential. This module will equip you with the necessary skills to understand how needling can play a central role in the training and rehabilitation process, and how it can be combined with other therapies to optimize patient outcomes.

Learning objectives:

Theoretical understanding of dry needling:

• Understand the principles behind dry needling, including its history, development, and different approaches.
• Know the anatomy, biological influences, and physiological effects of needles on the musculoskeletal system.

Effects and clinical relevance:

•    Learn about the potential effects of dry needling, both positive and negative, and how research supports or challenges these effects.
•    Understand what clinical experience suggests about dry needling and how this knowledge can be applied in practice.
•    Develop an understanding of biological plausibility, and how it influences the use and interpretation of dry needling.

Practical skills training:

•    Learn techniques for correct needle placement and manipulation, including safety procedures and sterile technique.
•    Perform dry needling on selected muscles and structures with increased confidence and accuracy.
•    Identify trigger points and areas suitable for dry needling treatment.

Integration into treatment plan:

•    Combine dry needling with other therapeutic approaches such as mobilization, manipulation, and exercise to optimize patient outcomes.
•    Develop individualized treatment plans that include dry needling for diverse patient populations, including athletes, the elderly, and patients with chronic pain.
•    Evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

Research and evidence-based approach:

•    Critique and evaluate available research on dry needling in order to apply evidence-based practice in clinical work.
•    Learn to interpret and apply research both for and against dry needling, and develop a balanced understanding of the method’s potential and limitations.
•    Identify areas for further research and development within dry needling.

Deep and comprehensive understanding:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of dry needling, from the theoretical fundamentals to the practical applications.

Ethical and clinical considerations:

• Discussion of ethical challenges related to dry needling.
• Development of clinical reasoning for decision-making in relation to dry needling.

Clinical relevance:

• The module focuses on providing you with practical skills that you can use directly in your clinical work to improve patient outcomes.

Interdisciplinary knowledge:

• Benefit from a wide range of knowledge from different therapy groups, making this one of the most comprehensive modules in strength training, athletic training and rehabilitation.

Expert guidance:

• Learn from experienced therapists and clinicians who have extensive experience in dry needling and related therapies.