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Committee reiterates: needling that penetrates skin is acupuncture; stakeholders report suspected unlicensed practice
Summary
The committee discussed dry needling/trigger-point needling and enforcement, with the board saying skin penetration constitutes acupuncture under current law and public commenters reporting nurses and other clinicians performing needling at health systems.
At a California Acupuncture Board licensing committee meeting, board staff and members reiterated that needling that penetrates the skin falls under the statutory definition of acupuncture, and stakeholders urged enforcement and outreach after public reports of nonacupuncturists performing needling.
Chair Dr. Amy Matecki told the room the panel is focused on public protection: “The minute you penetrate the skin, it's called acupuncture,” she said, summarizing the practical implication of the board’s view. Executive staff and…
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