Course Summary

Dry Needling for Athletes and Active Adults is an immersive 5.0 NJ CEU online course designed for clinicians who treat high-performing and active populations. Led by Nick Sanders PT, the course bridges the gap between neurophysiology and applied sports rehab, offering a deep dive into how systemic stress, neuroinflammation, and central sensitization impact movement quality, pain perception, and injury recovery. Across 12 targeted modules, participants will explore the cellular mechanisms of dry needling—including ATP release, glial cell signaling, and mast cell modulation—alongside layered intervention strategies involving needling, cupping, and vibration. The course introduces a practical Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) framework to personalize treatment intensity and dosage, and walks through real-world protocols for conditions like DOMS, swelling, tendinopathy, and pediatric musculoskeletal issues. With a strong focus on evidence-based strategies and athlete-specific adaptations, this course equips rehab professionals with the tools to deliver smarter, more targeted outcomes.