2019

DEFINITION OF DRY NEEDLING:

Dry Needling is a skilled intervention that uses a thin filiform needle to stimulate underlyingmyofascialtrigger points,muscular, and connective tissuesforthe managementof neuromuscular pain and movement impairments to improve the ability to perform ADL’s (Activities of daily living) and IADL’s (Instrumental activities of daily living). Dry Needling would not be used as a stand-alone procedure but part of a broader treatment plan in preparation for or concurrently with purposeful and occupation-based activities or interventions that enhance engagement in occupation. Connie Simon OTR/CHT

Dry needling would fall under the Occupational Therapy Scope of practice within the OT Practice Act:

• OT 4.02(1) “Occupational therapy,” as defined ats.448.96 (5). Stats.,may include the following interventions: (a) Remediation or restitution of performance abilities that are limited due to impairment in biological, physiological, psychological of neurological processes

• OT 4.02(f) indicating that physical agentmodalities based on a physician order as an adjunct to or in preparation for engagement in treatment.

• OT 4.02(r) Use of a range of specific therapeuticprocedures, includingwound care management, techniques to enhance sensory, perceptual, and cognitive processing; and pain management, lymphedema management and manual therapy techniques to enhance performance skills.

WOTA is endorsing that the State of Wisconsin Practice Act supports that dry needling is within the scope of practice for Occupational Therapists, provided there is documented evidence of clinical competence. Skilled/experienced therapists are definitely qualified based on their basic education of anatomy and physiology along with demonstration of continuing education and competence to perform this technique.