Learn about dry needling
A clinical overview of dry needling grounded in safety, assessment, and whole-body neuromusculoskeletal reasoning.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a clinical intervention that uses fine, solid filiform needles to assess and treat neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. When applied appropriately, dry needling is not about treating a single painful spot in isolation. It is used as part of a broader assessment process to influence the nervous system, muscle tone, and movement patterns contributing to pain and dysfunction.At its best, dry needling supports clinical reasoning—it does not replace it.Dry needling is distinct from acupuncture and other needling-based practices. While it may appear similar on the surface, its application, clinical goals, and decision-making framework are rooted in contemporary neuromusculoskeletal assessment and treatment.
Clinical reasoning comes frist
Effective dry needling begins long before a needle touches the skin. At Gunn IMS, dry needling is taught as part of a whole-body neuromusculoskeletal model that emphasizes assessment, clinical reasoning, and appropriateness. Clinicians are trained to understand why a tissue is being needled, when it is indicated, and how it fits into the patient’s broader presentation.This approach moves clinicians away from memorized protocols and toward thoughtful, defensible clinical decisions—especially in cases of persistent or complex pain.
- University-affiliated curriculum
- Safety standards embedded at every level
- Built on decades of collective clinical expertise
The Gunn IMS Difference
Whole-body neuromusculoskeletal model
Gunn IMS teaches clinicians to understand dysfunction across interconnected systems, rather than treating isolated symptoms or points. This model helps organize clinical reasoning and supports more durable outcomes in persistent pain.
Safety as a clinical standard
Safety at Gunn IMS is not a single module or checklist. It is embedded throughout training—covering anatomy, depth, clean field, timing, and appropriateness—so safe practice becomes habit, not assumption.
Depth without shortcuts
Gunn IMS offers an accessible entry point without lowering the bar. Clinicians can begin safely, then progress into deeper regional and specialty training as their skills and experience grow—earning certification that reflects true clinical competence.