Acupuncture and Dry Needling Workshop Outline

The workshop begins with an explanation of the distinctions between Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and various modern forms of acupuncture. The evidence base for this modality will also be discussed. Pre-reading links will be provided.
The following topics are then discussed. Demonstrations of practical skills will be frequently used and hands on practice with partners will follow. The reminder is that the intention is for participants to be ready to use acupuncture needles immediately.
1.  Introduction to acupuncture needles and their safe use and overall safety considerations when using acupuncture.
2.  Point selection criteria.
3.  General considerations on methodology of use.
4.  Introduction to the channels affecting the lower limbs.
5.  Comprehensive list of commonly used points on these channels including the point characteristics.
6.  An introduction to the use of dry needling in the treatment of myofascial trigger points.
7.  Outline of point combinations for common condition including using a combination of acupuncture and dry needling.
8.  A discussion and outline of methods of combining acupuncture into your overall treatment protocols along with your current modalities.

What Skills you will learn. 

• Skill 1.         You will be trained in the safe use of acupuncture needles. You will only be trained in the form of acupuncture using needles.

• Skill 2.         You will be trained in the use of a simplified version of traditional acupuncture including lower limb channels and point selection criteria.

• Skill 3.         You will be trained in the dry needling of myofascial trigger points and associated techniques used for trigger point release.

• Skill 4.         You will learn to combine the forms of acupuncture outlined above and the integration of acupuncture and your existing Podiatric skills.

• Skill 5.         You will be involved in selecting the treatment possibilities  using acupuncture for common conditions presenting in your clinic.

 Dry Needling Workshop component.

The dry needling component will consist of two main parts. The first is an introduction to history and definitions that are used in trigger point therapy. An explanation of what a 'classical' trigger point is. The relationship to the trigger point and the 'ah chi' point. How to find a trigger point. How to deactivate them. The difference between quick release and slow release of the trigger point. The classical and non classical outcomes of dry needling a trigger point.
Complications although rare will be discussed. How to use different length needles while maintaining a sterile approach. Heat and 'Spray and Stretch' techniques will be demonstrated.

After the introductory section the rest of the workshop is basically hands-on. Most of the muscles of the lower limb will be discussed along with a special section on 'Achilles Tendinitis'.

The Workshop is enhanced by extremely detailed notes in colour. At the conclusion of the workshop an interactive CD will be issued along with a certificate of attendance.