Myofascial Trigger Points and the Indication for Dry Needling

This course will review the history of dry needling, the causes of myofascial trigger points (TrP) and highlight some common referral patterns that mimic other musculoskeletal disorders. Special tests to differentially diagnose a patient's pain generator will be reviewed. The course will NOT discuss dry needling techniques.

Dry Needling is a popular treatment tool for physical andoccupational therapists. But like any tool in our toolbox, knowing when to use it is what makes dry needling a successful treatment. As more therapists are being trained in dry needling and more patients request dry needling, a therapist must have the skills to identify when dry needling willbe effective. Referred pain from myofascial trigger points can mimic other musculoskeletal disorders such as cervical radiculopathy, sciatica, lateral epicondylitis and plantar fasciitis. This course will highlight the subjective information to ask of patients as well as review special tests to improve the differential diagnosis skills of the participants.

Highlights

• Improve your differential diagnosis skills to identify myofascial trigger points
• Practical advice on when to incorporate Dry Needling into treatment plan
• Integrate subjective interview and objective measures to appropriately apply dry needling.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Athletic Trainers