Dry needling is a technique used to treat muscle pain and dysfunction. It is already performed by physical therapists in most states and is supported by national professional standards, including the American Physical Therapy Association. A majority of states recognize dry needling as within the scope of practice for physical therapists, including neighboring states such as Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and West Virginia. Pennsylvania law, however, remains unclear, limiting patient access to coordinated care.

To modernize our practice laws and expand access to safe, non-opioid pain treatment, we are introducing legislation to clearly allow licensed physical therapists in Pennsylvania to perform dry needling with proper training and clear regulations.

Allowing properly trained physical therapists to perform dry needling gives patients another option to manage pain, recover from injuries, and regain mobility. Our legislation also establishes training standards and regulatory oversight through the State Board of Physical Therapy to ensure patient safety.

Please join us in cosponsoring this legislation to update Pennsylvania’s Physical Therapy Practice Act and expand access to safe, effective care across the Commonwealth.