SAFETY MODULE

The Safety in Acupuncture and Dry Needling Course is at Foundation level aligned to the Competence Framework.

A physiotherapy practitioner at this level can independently manage a range of clients with uncomplicated presentations in this area of practice, they can establish the client’s goals and deliver safe and effective management. It would suit physiotherapists:

• commencing post entry-level development with an interest in this area of practice

• seeking to re-enter the workforce or returning to this area after an absence

• who are currently practicing and moving into this area who are expected to perform at this level

This course comprises six eLearning modules and an online assessment focusing on clinical safety in the context of acupuncture and dry needling in physiotherapy practice.

Topics include: Training Standards, Principles of Safe Practice, Management of High Risk Situations, Management of Adverse Events, Methods of Reducing the Spread of Infection, Notation Guidelines, Practical Considerations, and Additional Guidelines: Traditional Chinese Techniques.

Presenters

• Leigh McCutcheon: B.App.Sc. (Physio) Grad. Cert. (Orth Manip Ther) Post Grad Dip (Acupuncture) Master (Musculoskeletal)

• Paula Raymond Yacoub: B Phty, Acup Cert (APA) M Clin Prac

• Tristan Chai: B. Phty, Masters (Acupuncture)

CPD Hours: 2 hours

PART A

This course is designed to provide physiotherapists an opportunity to improve knowledge and skills of dry needling, and make them aware of guidelines for safe dry needling practices in a range of musculoskeletal conditions. On completion, participants will have a good knowledge of the theory, research and safety considerations of dry needling.

 Dry Needling Physiotherapy Level 1 - Part A  is self-paced and consists of seven recorded lectures. These must be completed to receive a Certificate of Attendance. It is also valuable as refresher training or CPD

Part A is a pre-requisite for the Dry Needling for Physiotherapists Level 1 – Part B face-to-face course.  Group discussion, presentations and a theory exam during the practical Part B course will assume this knowledge.

Presenters

Jane Rooney, APAM, FACP

Peter Selvaratnam, APAM, FACP

 Learning Outcomes

On completion of Part A, participants will be able to:

• Describe the history and theories of dry needling.

• Explain the different approaches and indications of dry needling

• Identify the difference between acupuncture and dry needling approaches

• Explain the research evidence specific to dry needling

• Identify the safety considerations including documented side effects relating to dry needling

• Describe the precautions and contraindications for dry needling, in order to evaluate patient’s suitability for dry needling

CPD Hours: 3.5 hours