Functional Dry Needling (FDN) Upper Quadrant 1 is an intermediate level course that teaches technical proficiency in foundational dry needling techniques for the upper quadrant. This course gives clinicians the tools to elevate their practice and fosters confidence and competence to integrate dry needling into practice the very next day. Musculature taught includes cervical spine, shoulder, upper extremity and hand. Anatomy, safety, precautions, and psychomotor aspects of needling are reinforced alongside instruction in history, supportive evidence, and clinical application and reasoning. FDN Upper Quadrant 1 is a hybrid learning experience that integrates online learning prior to the lab-based weekend intensive.

Important Considerations:

• This course is for practitioners who want content solely on management of upper quadrant dysfunction (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand)
• If you are a practitioner wanting content that covers management of upper and lower quadrant consider taking FDN Level 1 instead

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, a successful participant will be able to: 

• Describe the practice of Functional Dry Needling, including how this adjunctive treatment can influence functional outcomes for patient  
• Isolate and prioritize deficit areas of UE body functions to target with FDN based on patient identified limitations in daily activities  
• Apply solid clinical reasoning in the application of Functional Dry Needling  
• Describe the appropriate use of percutaneous electrical stimulation with Functional Dry Needling for enhanced outcomes  
• Demonstrate safe, effective, and appropriate application of Functional Dry Needling  
• Discuss the scope of practice, functional benefits, and advocacy considerations regarding dry needling  
• Discuss evidence-based, patient-centered intervention case scenarios that reflect best clinical practice in Functional Dry Needling  

Evidence in Motion is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity approval ID# 6811. This blended/hybrid activity is offered at 35 Contact hours/3.5 CEUs Intermediate, OT Service Delivery/Professional Issues/Foundational Knowledge. AOTA does not endorse specific course content, products, or clinical procedures.