Dry needling in Nebraska: the rules for physical therapists

Nebraska's PT regulations (172 NAC 137-006) let PTs perform tissue penetration for dry needling after training.

Allowedfor PTs

Pre-service or in-service training covering set topics (no set hours), or authorization from another state with equivalent requirementstraining before you start

Rules to know

Training must cover anatomy and physiology, equipment, indications, tissue penetration technique, sterile methods and complications, post-treatment care, and tissue palpation.
Being authorized to dry needle in another state with substantially equivalent requirements also qualifies.

Official sources

172 NAC 137, Physical therapy regulations, section 006 (effective 2020, 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 Nebraska

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

November 2026

Sat–Sun, Nov 14–15, 2026 · 2 days Functional Dry Needling Level 1 (2-Day) Price on provider site · Omaha Evidence in Motion· Makovicka Physical TherapyDry Needling Details and registration

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Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in Nebraska?

Yes. Nebraska's PT regulations (172 NAC 137-006) let PTs perform tissue penetration for dry needling after training.

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

Pre-service or in-service training covering set topics (no set hours), or authorization from another state with equivalent requirements.