Dry Needling Research: Why Are the Results So Inconsistent?
Presented by Phil Plisky and Edo Zylstra
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Dr. Edo Zylstra, PT, DPT, a leader in the development and teaching of dry needling techniques, joins host Phil Plisky for a deep dive into one of the most debated modalities in rehabilitation. Phil and Edo revisit decades of clinical experience, challenge assumptions in the research, and explore why dry needling may succeed—or fall short—depending on how and when it’s applied. Together, they discuss the gap between controlled trials and clinical practice, and offer you a compelling neurological lens to rethink musculoskeletal care. If you’ve ever wondered why the literature on dry needling is all over the map, this conversation is for you.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze the evidence around how to improve clinical effectiveness with dry needling and other manual therapy tools
- Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address patient symptoms by assessing and treating underlying mechanisms
- Solve patient case scenarios involving the integration of a neurological lens in orthopedic assessment and intervention
This is an audio-only course. Additional materials are available for download within the course. To receive continuing education credit, complete the course and the accompanying quiz.
Meet your instructors
Phil Plisky
Dr. Phil Plisky is a professor in the University of Evansville’s Doctor of Physical Therapy and PhD in Health Professions Education programs. He is the host of the Medbridge Rehab and Performance Lab podcast and founder of the Coaches Club at
Edo Zylstra
Dr. Edo Zylstra PT, DPT, is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy. He earned his Master’s of Physical Therapy at Regis University in 1999 and his Doctorate from Regis in 2012. He worked as a staff physical therapist in a specialty pain and spine injury clinic in the Denver area for several years before establishing a…
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