Dry Needling 2025

Elevate your practice with the precision of dry needling — a breakthrough method that targets muscle pain at its source and accelerates healing. Backed by science and proven results, this technique empowers you to provide faster relief and improved function for your patients. Step into the future of pain management today!

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About Institute:

The David G. Simons Academy (DGSA) pioneered manual trigger point therapy and dry needling, honoring Dr. Simons, co-author of the famous Trigger Point Manuals.

Since the early 1990s, we’ve trained tens of thousands worldwide, earning global recognition for our expert teaching and high standards. Our courses are organized worldwide from Switzerland.

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Program description:

Our pragmatic dry needling courses provide comprehensive hands-on training with close instructor supervision and meticulous, step-by-step instruction for proficient and safe application of various dry needling techniques. The theoretical component covers pathophysiology, etiology, epidemiology, diagnostic methods, differential diagnosis, and clinical management of myofascial trigger points, dysfunctions, and related pain syndromes. Participants also learn safety protocols, indications, contraindications, and essential hygiene standards for dry needling practice..

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Course objectives:

At the completion of the program the participants will:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the scientific foundations of myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points.
• Develop proficiency in identifying muscles through surface anatomy, palpation, and functional assessment, including their clinical signs and contributing factors.
• Acquire skills to recognize trigger point characteristics via physical examination with a focus on muscular application.
• Understand the specific indications, contraindications, and precautions for dry needling practice.
• Demonstrate mastery of safety protocols essential for safe and effective dry needling.
• Attain proficiency in performing dry needling techniques across various muscles.
• Recognize potential side effects and complications and respond appropriately to ensure patient safety.
• Perform thorough patient assessments and integrate dry needling into comprehensive treatment plans for musculoskeletal and myofascial conditions.
• Evaluate treatment outcomes and adjust techniques to optimize patient care.

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Program topics: 

1. Foundations of Dry Needling

• Principles, history, and clinical relevance
• Best practices and current guidelines

1. Myofascial Pain Syndrome

• Pathophysiology, trigger points, and clinical patterns

1. Muscle Assessment & Palpation

• Surface anatomy, functional testing, and TP identification

1. Safety & Clinical Considerations

• Indications, contraindications, hygiene, and risk management

1. Dry Needling Techniques

• Needle handling and application across body regions
• Treatment for conditions like frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, low back pain, sciatica, knee OA, and shin splints

1. Integration & Patient Care

• Combining dry needling with exercises and manual therapy
• Creating treatment plans and home rehab programs

1. Evidence-Based Practice

• Research insights and updates in the field

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Program levels & Duration:

Level 1 (Basic): 3 days 

Level 2 (Advanced & Exam): 3 days

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More details about levels: 

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Level 1 (Basic): 3 days 

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What's included in this level fee?

• Comprehensive training in principles and the basic dry needling techniques. 
• Dry needles in varying sizes.
• DGSA electronic book.
• Certificate of Attendance for Module 1 upon successful attendance for Module 1 and passing the final written and practical exams.

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Level 2 (Advanced & Exam): 3 days

Prerequisite: Full-time attendance for Module I

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What's included in this level fee?

• Comprehensive advanced training in the use of dry needling techniques.
• Dry needles in varying sizes.
• DGSA electronic book.
• Certificate of Attendance for Module 2 upon successful attendance full-time for Modules I & II and passing the final written and practical exams.
• Certification Exam fee.

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The Certified Dry Needle Practitioner(CDNP) Exam: 

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Exam Prerequisites: PT & OT (intern or graduate) with full-time attendance for the Modules I & II.

Certified Dry Needle Practitioner Requirements: Passing the final written and practical exams.

Exam retakes: Not required. 

Certificate renewal/reaccreditation is not required. 

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Benefits of Being a CDNP:

• Improved clinical skill
• Better clinical outcomes
• Improved satisfaction
• Professional recognition/reputation
• Posting of your professional contact information via the DGSA website.
• Improved referral base

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Program International accreditation:

From David G. Simons Academy (DGSA), Switzerland.

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Institute website & Research:

DGSA Website: https://www.dgs-academy.com/en/our-courses/dry-needling-courses

Extensive research supports myofascial pain, trigger points, dry needling, and related therapies. For the latest updates, visit the link below: https://www.dgs-academy.com/en/research

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Notification on teaching: Individuals who attend DGSA courses or pass the CDNP qualifying exam are NOT entitled to, nor are they recognized by the DGSA to formally teach Dry needling courses, or to use the educational materials for teaching.

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Dr. Ghazi Sarhan and 1 more