Dry Needling Rulings
Delaware
Is Dry Needling Legal in Delaware?
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March 2026: According to the Delaware Administrative Code, Title 24 Regulated Professions and Occupations, Division of Professional Regulation, 2600 Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers,
15.4.1 Dry needling is "an intervention that uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying muscular tissue, connective tissues and myofascial trigger points for the management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments; is based upon Western medical concepts; and requires a physical therapy examination and diagnosis." 24 Del.C. §2602(6). Dry needling is within the scope of practice for a Physical Therapist. 24 Del.C. §2602(10)(a). It is not in the scope of practice for Athletic Trainers, Physical Therapy Assistants or Physical Therapy Aides.
15.4.2 Requirements for Physical Therapists to perform dry needling:
15.4.4.3 The program curriculum shall include the following:
15.4.4.3.1 History and current literature review of dry needling and evidence based practice;
15.4.4.3.2 Pertinent anatomy and physiology;
15.4.4.3.3 Choice and operation of supplies and equipment;
15.4.4.3.4 Knowledge of technique including indications/contraindications and precautions for use;
15.4.4.3.5 Proper technique of tissue penetration;
15.4.4.3.6 Knowledge of hazards and complications;
15.4.4.3.8 Post intervention care, including an adverse response or emergency;
15.4.4.3.10 Supervised training.
15.4.6 Examination and Informed Consent
15.4.6.2.1 The patient's signature;
15.4.6.2.2 The risks and benefits of dry needling;
15.4.9 Documentation of training: The Physical Therapist bears the burden of proof of sufficient education and training to ensure competence with the treatment or intervention. If requested by the Board or a member of the public, the Physical Therapist practicing dry needling shall provide documentation of completion of the training required by this regulation. Failure to provide written documentation to the Board of meeting the training requirements shall be deemed prima facie evidence that the Physical Therapist is not competent and shall not be permitted to perform dry needling.
- On August 12, 2014, Delaware Governor Jack Markell signed a newly revised PT licensing law that includes dry needling.
- In October 2009, the Delaware Board of Physical Therapy elected not to issue an opinion about dry needling.