Craniofacial Dry Needling Course

This region-specific Dry Needling Course is designed for clinicians with a special interest in temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD). It provides an in-depth exploration of musculoskeletal anatomy, the pathophysiology of myofascial pain, and the mechanisms behind dry needling. Participants will develop the essential skills needed to safely and effectively apply dry needling techniques to the craniofacial region.

Participants will be able to use dry needling to treat myofascial pain presentations utilising solid filament (dry) needles applied to myofascial trigger points in the orofacial region. The practical workshop is delivered over one day (7 hours) and will develop the skills and knowledge to safely and effectively treat myofascial trigger points and other neuro-musculoskeletal causes of pain in the jaw, face and neck.

The structures needled in this course include:

  • The Masseter

  • Temporalis

  • Lateral and medial pterygoid

  • digastric

  • sternocleidomastoid muscles

ACE has incorporated a thorough, evidence-based approach in developing and teaching this course, utilising current pain science principles and research supported indications for dry needling treatment.

The course includes easy to follow, pre-course learning materials delivered online via training videos with a series of multiple-choice quizzes.
The pre-course learning modules ensure all participants have a thorough understanding of the musculoskeletal and neurovascular anatomy, mechanisms of dry needling, safety and application of dry needling, including the key scientific evidence that underpins this modality. The online pre-course program must be completed prior to attending the practical workshop, this is a strict requirement for attendance.

This course is open to dental professionals including Dentists or Dental Hygienists, medical professionals and manual therapists such as Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Chiropractors, Myotherapists and Remedial Therapists.

Please note: This course will NOT equip you with the skills and knowledge to safely needle structures that are NOT included in this course. To be able to safely needle the entire body, we recommend you complete our 3 day introductory Dry Needling Course. Before undertaking this course, we also recommend you check with your professional association to ensure dry needling is within your scope of practice and that you can be insured to utilise this modality.

English Language: Please note that proficiency in written and verbal communication in English is essential for participation in ACE courses. Being able to understand and communicate clearly in English is a requirement for safety purposes, and to ensure that you and your fellow students get the most out of your learning experience. If it is deemed that your English proficiency is not suitable for safe participation in the course, this may result in your registration being cancelled and you may not be eligible for a refund.