Dry needling in Alabama: the rules for physical therapists

The board treats dry needling as part of PT practice. Alabama's rules don't set a training minimum; you're expected to have the training and skill to do it safely.

Allowedfor PTs

No set hours in the rulestraining before you start

Rules to know

The board's 2024 letter says the directing PT decides whether to delegate dry needling to a PTA, based on that PTA's training. Employers can't make that call.
Both the PT and the PTA are accountable for anything delegated.

Official sources

Alabama Board of Physical Therapy: Dry needling clarification letter (September 2024, PDF)

A plain-language summary, last checked October 24, 2026. Dry needling rules change often and some states regulate it through board statements rather than law, so confirm with your board before you dry needle. OTs and athletic trainers have their own rules.

Dry needling courses in Alabama

1 upcoming in-person course. Make sure a course's hours and format meet Alabama's rules before you register.

May 2027

Sat–Sun, May 15–16, 2027 · 2 days Dry Needling: Upper Body $995 · Homewood ICE Physio· Onward BirminghamDry Needling Details and registration

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Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in Alabama?

Yes. The board treats dry needling as part of PT practice. Alabama's rules don't set a training minimum; you're expected to have the training and skill to do it safely.

How much training do PTs need to dry needle in Alabama?

No set hours in the rules.