SB1078 Summary

• Adds dry needling as an authorized practice for licensed athletic trainers, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and physical therapists/physical therapist assistants after completion of specified training requirements.

• Requires 50 hours of instructional courses covering musculoskeletal/neuromuscular systems, pain mechanisms, myofascial trigger point theory, and universal precautions.

• Requires 30 hours of didactic coursework specific to dry needling, 54 hours of practicum training, 200 supervised patient treatment sessions, and successful completion of a competency examination.

• Defines dry needling as treatment of myofascial pain using a sterile needle based on Western medical concepts, excluding acupuncture techniques involving auricular points, distal points, needle retention, or electric stimulation.

• Requires dry needling to be performed only upon referral by a health care professional (for physical therapists providing services without referral, notification to treating professional required within 5 business days).