Safety in Dry Needling: The Role and Contributions of the International Dry Needling Education & Training Advisory Group (IDNETAG)

Dry needling is an intervention that physical therapists use to address various neuromusculoskeletal pain syndromes, primarily through targeting myofascial trigger points (TrPs) in muscle tissue. This technique involves inserting thin filiform needles into specific areas to relieve pain and improve movement. Despite its therapeutic potential, concerns regarding adverse events (AEs) necessitate stringent safety protocols and guidelines. In response, the International Dry Needling Education & Training Advisory Group (IDNETAG) was established in 2023 with members from diverse professions across eight countries. IDNETAG's mission is to enhance global standards of practice, focusing on safety, education, and consistency in treatment protocols. Research indicates that while mild AEs, such as bruising and localised pain, are common, significant AEs are infrequent. Studies have shown minimal risk of serious adverse events when trained practitioners perform dry needling. This review outlines the efforts of IDNETAG in developing initial safety guidelines, addressing challenges in research on dry needling, and fostering a collaborative framework to improve practice standards. Ultimately, IDNETAG aims to ensure patient safety and promote best practices in dry needling therapy across the globe.