04/21/2026
What is AB 2497?
As of April 2026, California Assembly Bill 2497 proposes updating the Physical Therapy Practice Act. One part of the bill would allow physical therapists to perform “dry needling,” which involves inserting thin needles into muscle tissue to treat trigger points.
So what does that mean?
Dry needling uses an acupuncture needle to release a trigger point, a small, tight knot in the muscle that can be painful.
But a needle is not limited to treating just one type of muscle knot.
The same needle can also be used to:
• Stimulate motor points, think of these like a muscle’s light switch. If a muscle is weak or not activating properly, stimulation can help “turn it on.”
• Increase blood flow to reduce inflammation
• Regulate the nervous system
• Support overall balance in the body
Once tissue pe*******on is authorized, it goes beyond one labeled technique. A needle does not know what it is called, it interacts with muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and deeper structures.
Because of that, patients deserve clear information about:
• Who is inserting needles
• What specific training they have completed
• What regulatory standards apply
When legislation uses a narrow term like “dry needling,” it’s important for the public to understand the broader implications of authorizing tissue pe*******on.
This conversation is about clarity, transparency, and thoughtful oversight, so patients can make informed decisions about their care.
