Reducing Dangerous Placement of Needles by Physiotherapists Using Dry Needling Through Cadaver Anatomy Review: A Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing Needle Placement Accuracy and Confidence

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether adding cadaver anatomy review improves the accuracy and perceived safety of physiotherapists practicing dry needling. This study compares an anatomy review using cadaver materials to an educational session unrelated to anatomy. The aim is to see if the anatomy review enhances needle placement accuracy and safety compared to the control education. The study involves physiotherapists licensed in dry needling and needling participants experienced with receiving such treatments. The trial includes two groups: one receives a two-hour interactive cadaver anatomy review focused on high-risk areas, and the other attends a two-hour online education session about dry needling theory without anatomy content. Participants first complete baseline exams and needle three selected muscles using ultrasound to measure accuracy and safety. After the interventions, they retake knowledge exams and repeat the needling assessments within two weeks. During the study, therapists' needle placement is evaluated using ultrasound imaging on male and female needling volunteers to ensure safety and accuracy. Self-confidence in needling is also measured using a visual scale. The study measures changes in dry needling accuracy, safety, confidence, and anatomy knowledge before and after the interventions. Safety precautions and blinded assessments are in place to ensure reliable and unbiased results.

Physiotherapy Dry Needling Accuracy