Dry needling in Rhode Island: the rules for physical therapists

Rhode Island's PT law (R.I. Gen. Laws 5-40-1) and the Department of Health's PT rules don't mention dry needling or set training for it. Ask the Board of Physical Therapy before you start.

Not addressed in lawfor PTs

None settraining before you start

Rules to know

APTA counts Rhode Island among states that permit PT dry needling, but we found no Rhode Island law, rule or board statement saying so.

Official sources

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 Rhode Island

No in-person dry needling courses are listed in Rhode Island right now. See dry needling courses in every state.

Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island law doesn't address it. Rhode Island's PT law (R.I. Gen. Laws 5-40-1) and the Department of Health's PT rules don't mention dry needling or set training for it. Ask the Board of Physical Therapy before you start.

How much training do PTs need to dry needle in Rhode Island?

Not applicable, since PTs may not dry needle under current law.