ABOUT THIS COURSE
Dry Needling is a skilled intervention that uses a thin needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points, muscles and connective (fascial) tissues for the management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments.
Dry Needling is used to treat dysfunctions in skeletal muscle, fascia and connective tissue and diminish persistent peripheral nociceptive input and reduce or restore impairments of function leading to improved activity and participation.
Dry Needling may be incorporated into a treatment plan when myofascial trigger points (TrPs) are present. TrPs have been identified in numerous diagnoses. Dry Needling can treat radiculopathies, joint dysfunction, disk pathology, tendinopathies, cranio-mandibular dysfunction, headaches and migraines, tension-type headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, computer-related or repetitive strain disorders, whiplash associated injury, spinal dysfunction, pelvic pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, complex regional pain syndromes, sports injuries, nocturnal cramps and other relatively uncommon disorders.
NSC offers 2 Dry Needling CPD programmes:
Course 1 – Dry Needling Techniques for Muscular Structures (1 Day)
Course 2 – Dry Needling Techniques for Articular & Ligamentous Structures (1 Day)
Entry Requirements:
Applicants must hold a framework aligned qualification in sports massage, neuromuscular therapy, physical therapy or physiotherapy.
Why Study with us?
The National Sports College is one of Ireland’s leading providers of professional qualifications in fitness, coaching, and massage therapy. Known for our high-quality, practical training and industry-recognised certifications.
Experience
Established in 2000, NSC has over 20 years of experience delivering fitness courses, earning a reputation as industry leaders committed to excellence in education within the sports, fitness and massage therapy industry.
Accreditation
Our courses are internationally accredited by Focus Awards and recognised by OFQUAL. They are also aligned with the NFQ and EQF Frameworks. Additionally, our programs are proudly endorsed by CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity).
Support
We are dedicated to providing ongoing support throughout your journy. Our tutors are always available to answer questions, clarify concepts, and offer guidance. We provide expert advice to help you succeed.
What our students say
Don’t just take our word! Hear what our students have to say about our courses!
I honestly didn’t think I’d ever go back to studying, but it was actually very manageable. George and Allison know their stuff inside out. Now I'm working part-time in a local gym and starting to build my own client base. The confidence it gave me was great.
Emma K.
Took the Strength & Conditioning course after qualifying as a PT, and it was a serious step up. Covered way more detail than I expected, especially around periodisation and coaching. Was able to apply it straight away with the lads I train.
Collin Byrne
I already had a sports science degree but needed a specific massage qualification to get insured and start seeing clients properly. The course was exactly what I needed. Honestly, it filled gaps I didn’t realise were missing from my degree. Delighted I did it.
James D.
Course Information
Find all the information you need on this Career Progression Day!
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Course 1 Content
- History of dry needling.
- Neurophysiology of dry needling.
- Muscle Trigger Points.
- Contraindications & Safety.
- Dry Needling Application for Major Muscular Structures
Course 2 Content
- History of dry needling.
- Neurophysiology of dry needling.
- Articular Structures Pathophysiology.
- Contraindications & Safety.
- Dry Needling Application for Major Articular and Ligamentous Structures.
Course Dates
2026 Course Dates
There are currently no available dates for 2026.
Additional dates can be arranged for groups of 10 or more. Please contact the college for
more information.
Course Fees
Course Fee: €250 for each CPD Award (€500 in total).
Each course is a 1 Day training programme (10am to 4pm).
Course fee includes registration, course materials and certification on successful completion.
Qualifications
CPD Award in Dry Needling Techniques for Muscular Structures (NSC)
CPD Award in Dry Needling Techniques for Articular & Ligamentous Structures (NSC)
Meet the Head Instructor
George Martin, BSc. PGDip. MSc. MTEd.
Founder, Academic Director & Lecturer
Call at 085 800 1221 or email info@nsc.ie.
George Martin oversees all academic qualifications offered through the National Sports College. He also lectures in Anatomy & Physiology, Sport Science, Strength & Conditioning, Personal Training, Gym Instruction, Exercise to Music, Sports Massage and Business Management. George has over 25 years experience in the sport/health fitness industry as an instructor, coach, tutor, therapist and manager.
Education:
- BSc. (Hons) in Sport Science (QQI Level 8)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- MSc. in Strength & Conditioning (QQI Level 9)
- Master of Arts in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- International Certificate in Exercise & Health Studies
- National Qualification in Sport & Remedial Massage Therapy
- Certified Tutor Coach (Coaching Ireland)
- Train the Trainer Certified (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Management Processes (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Information Technology & Computer Studies
- Registered Sport & Active Leisure Assessor
Frequently Asked Fitness Course Questions
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Is this qualification accredited?
Yes. The Sports Massage Therapy course is accredited by Focus Awards (who are regulated by OFQUAL). This course is also endorsed by CIMSPA and Sports Therapy Ireland. Lastly, it is recognised by QQI (Quality Qualifications Ireland) and comparable to Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications (Ireland).
Is this qualification accepted internationally?
Yes. Due to it’s high accreditation, the Sports Massage Therapy qualification can be used internationally.
Can I pay by instalments?
Yes. We offer multiple payment options.
Can I get a grant for course fees?
Yes. Some participants on our courses can avail of government grants when applying for our courses. We can assist in this process.
How will I be assessed?
Students are assessed with practical work along with a written exam.
What do I have to do outside class times?
Work outside class consists of studying and completing course assignments.
What is the success rate?
The vast majority of our students pass all examinations first time with few needing to repeat the exam.
What age group participates in this course?
The age range of members on our courses ranges from 18 to 55 years old. Anyone can do it!
Will I need to get insurance?
We strongly recommend all students hold a professional indemnity insurance policy. This covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was caused by following the student’s professional advice.