Dry Needling for Physical Therapy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if reviewing anatomy with cadavers helps physiotherapists improve their dry needling skills. The focus is on enhancing accuracy and safety in needling. Participants will either attend a cadaver anatomy class or complete an unrelated online course. They will then test their needling accuracy using ultrasound. Licensed physiotherapists in good standing who practice dry needling are well-suited for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers physiotherapists a unique opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to advancing the field of dry needling.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that this educational intervention is safe for physiotherapists?
Research has shown that studying dry needling on cadavers is generally safe. One study examined 21 cadaver-based studies and found that using dry needling without ultrasound guidance did not significantly harm important body structures.
Another study supported the safety of invasive physiotherapy methods, such as dry needling, when tested on cadavers. These studies help ensure that the procedure does not damage critical parts of the body. However, different methods of practicing dry needling might affect safety.
Overall, learning on cadavers has improved safety and accuracy, which can benefit physiotherapists. This trial explores whether hands-on learning with cadavers can make dry needling safer and more precise for real patients.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores the potential enhancements in dry needling practice through innovative educational methods. Unlike traditional training, which often relies on theoretical knowledge alone, this trial offers a unique approach with a cadaver anatomy review, focusing on high-risk areas for dry needling. This hands-on experience could significantly improve practitioners' understanding of anatomy, leading to more precise and safer techniques. By emphasizing real-life anatomy exploration, this trial aims to elevate the standard of care in physical therapy, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this cadaver anatomy review is effective for improving dry needling accuracy and safety?
Research shows that dry needling effectively reduces pain and increases pain tolerance compared to placebo treatments or no treatment. Studies have found that dry needling provides short-term pain relief comparable to other methods. Additionally, it surpasses doing nothing or using a placebo in reducing pain and disability in the short term. In this trial, one group will receive education focused on dry needling theory, while another group will participate in a cadaver anatomy review. Training that includes studying human anatomy on cadavers may help physiotherapists perform dry needling more accurately and safely, leading to better treatment results and improved patient outcomes.45678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Eric Parent, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Alberta
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for physiotherapists who practice dry needling. Participants should be willing to undergo educational sessions and demonstrate their needling skills on three specific muscles using ultrasound imaging. There are no specific inclusion or exclusion criteria provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete a baseline survey and initial knowledge exam, and initial dry needling accuracy measurements are taken using ultrasound imaging.
Intervention
Participants are randomized into control or intervention groups. The control group receives an online educational session not related to anatomy, while the intervention group receives a cadaver anatomy review class.
Post-Intervention Assessment
Participants retake a knowledge exam and dry needling accuracy measurements are reassessed using ultrasound imaging.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in knowledge and confidence in needle placement.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cadaver Anatomy Review
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alberta
Lead Sponsor