Dry Needling for Myofascial Trigger Point Pain

May 28, 2021/Dr. JJ Thomas, DPT, MPT, CMTPT

JJ was recently a co-author of an article published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy (IJSPT) co-authoring a piece focused on dry needling for myofascial trigger point pain. For more insight into her clinical commentary review the abstract below:

Abstract: 

Sports and orthopedic physical therapists have long used a multitude of techniques in order to address pain and dysfunction associated with myofascial trigger points. One technique, in particular, has recently received overwhelming attention: trigger point dry needling (DN). Despite its efficacy and low risk, questions remain as to its effectiveness, safety, and whether the technique is within the scope of practice of physical therapists. Therefore, the purpose of this clinical commentary is to summarize the current literature related to the associated mechanisms of action of DN, the safety of DN, as well as to discuss the relevant scope of practice concerns.

Read the full article here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458928/

Dr. JJ Thomas, DPT, MPT, CMTPT

JJ Thomas is the owner and founder of Primal Physical Therapy, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. She is also the founder and owner of Primal University, a continuing education company for clinicians who are driven to excellence in their craft. In addition, lectures and speaks nationally on the topics of Dry Needling, Functional Movement Analysis, and Functional Anatomy. She has been published in IJSPT for her contribution to a commentary on dry needling and consults as a content expert for organizations such as the APTA and FSBPT. In this role, she played a large part in the addition of a CPT code for dry needling through the AMA and was on the task force that helped outline competency standards for dry needling education nationally. JJ works with US Field Hockey teams, and individuals from US Lacrosse, US Polo, USA Track and Field, NFL, NBA, PLL, MLB, and most recently traveled with and supported athletes in the 2024 Paris Olympics. In addition to working directly with athletes, JJ has been contracted to teach dry needling to the medical staff of several NFL teams.
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