National Qualification in Myofascial Triggerpoint Needling

Turn pain into relief with expert precision!

Designed to meet the highest industry standards, providing you with the necessary confidence and expertise to help your patients find relief from pain and discomfort while avoiding heavy insurance loading.

Why our myofascial dry needling course?

You will acquire the skills to immediately apply your knowledge to your practice, helping your patients achieve optimal health and wellness.

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The full curriculum has been reviewed and approved by Balens insurance, helping graduates secure more competitive indemnity premiums than many other dry needling qualifications.

Structured

The programme is structured to cover a range of topics including indications and contraindications, needling techniques, pain management, safety and hygiene, and legal and ethical considerations.

Comprehensive

Our course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to offer safe and effective treatments to your patients, and to help you stand out as a highly trained and qualified practitioner.

Our graduates add dry needling to their existing practice, support clients across a wide range of musculoskeletal and pain management goals, and deliver treatment outcomes that keep clients coming back. You'll leave fully equipped and ready to apply your new skills from day one.

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What our graduates say

Success Stories

A selection of testimonials from graduates of NTC's courses.

Colin Cassidy

After qualifying, I went on to build a successful practice in Ireland and Australia — even treating Olympic athletes including Sir Chris Hoy.

Colin Cassidy
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Colin Cassidy
Colin Cassidy
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

In April 2012 I completed the Certificate level Neuromuscular Therapy course. Since I completed the course I have had massive success and progression. I had several private clients that I attained from advertising in the gym that I was working in, and also worked on a referral basis with physiotherapist David Gardiner owner of Physiotherapyworks in Naas Co.Kildare.

In August 2012 I moved to Perth, Australia where I have enjoyed even more success. I spent 8 months working at Subiaco Sports Massage and while working in this clinic I had the privilege of treating several Olympic athletes including Sir Chris Hoy of the GB cycling team and also Western Force rugby team of the super 15s competition.

I really enjoyed my time at the NTC – we really had a great group and we all keep in touch.

Steve Kirby

In 26 years of professional practice, few programmes have matched the standard and depth of this one.

Steve Kirby
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Steve Kirby
Steve Kirby
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

I have been in the Sports Massage and the treatment of occupational and sporting injuries profession for 26 years and have attended many courses to gain the necessary qualifications to give my very best to those in my care. I had read a book written by John Sharkey which was well written, extremely informative and an excellent reference source. I subsequently had the pleasure of meeting John and went on to register for a Neuromuscular Therapy programme.

It is an excellent course with lectures of the highest standard delivering essential information and first-rate techniques. Applying them in clinical practice I have seen very positive outcomes in patients of all ages. I highly recommend NTC for all therapists at any stage in their career. You will not be disappointed.

Ismail Sina

This programme transformed how I treat pain. One long-term client experienced an 80% reduction in chronic knee pain after just a few hours of treatment.

Ismail Sina
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Ismail Sina
Ismail Sina
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Thank you to John Sharkey and all the NTC tutors. The Advanced European Neuromuscular Therapy course has been an eye-opener for me because of my background in Personal Training and Sports Massage. I have learnt unique ways of treating pain and have been applying these techniques to my existing clients.

In particular, a long-term client of mine with knee chronic pain, after few hours of treatment her knee pain has reduced by 80 percent.

Once again thank you to all NTC tutors this would not have been possible without you. It is a shame the course has come to an end but I also can’t wait to treat people with chronic pain and do a diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy. I will definitely recommend this course to a friend or a family member.

This education has fundamentally elevated me as a practitioner and reshaped the future of my practice.

Rob Date
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Rob Date
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Thanks once again for an inspiring and enlightening weekend (although my wife’s upper trapezius muscles may disagree!). Learnt loads and I am very excited about the future of my practice.

Although already incredibly busy I find treating people with pain much more interesting and fulfilling than a runner with a tweaked calf. The education you have given me is truly going to develop me as a practitioner in such a dramatic way.

Thanks, John. Sad the course is coming to an end but will thoroughly recommend to others and will look to do the Masters in the future.

My time at NTC sparked my passion for Anatomy and Physiology and ultimately led me to pursue a career in Nursing.

Eamonn Maher
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Eamonn Maher
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

My experience at NTC was an enjoyable and positive one. This is where I realised my interest in Anatomy, Physiology and caring for people and is the main reason I’ve decided to go back to studying Nursing.

I met some fantastic people during my time at NTC and what I learned has played a huge part in me getting a place on Nursing studies.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and tutors for guiding me to where I am now.

Alan Devine

This programme delivers a qualification that is widely recognised and respected within the industry.

Alan Devine
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Alan Devine
Alan Devine
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Can I pass on my sincerest gratitude to all the staff at NTC ? Once again you all have delivered another professional and enjoyable course that ensures a qualification that is recognised and accepted with high regard within the industry.

Successfully completing the Neuromuscular Therapy exams was the first step in a new professional chapter.

Liam Cotter
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Liam Cotter
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

The good news is that I passed my Neuromuscular Therapy exams. I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to all the team in NTC for helping me in step one of a plan. You are a great team with wonderful tutors.

Nicole Dunne

The encouragement and guidance from my tutors gave me the confidence to perform at my best in my exams.

Nicole Dunne
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Nicole Dunne
Nicole Dunne
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

I have just sat my NMT exams and if it wasn’t for Larry, one of my tutors who helped me out, I would have let my nerves get the best of me. I also wish to thank the rest of the tutors and staff for all their help over the past 18 months.

Everything You Need to Know

Course Details

Develop the skills to use dry needling with confidence, combining hands-on technique, clinical knowledge, and evidence-based practice to deliver effective, targeted treatments for a wide range of musculoskeletal and pain presentations.

Overview

The NTC Myofascial Trigger Point Dry Needling course provides qualified manual therapists with a comprehensive grounding in the theory, principles, and practical application of dry needling — equipping you to incorporate this effective treatment modality into your existing practice with confidence.

At a Glance Details
Format Hands-on CPD workshop with theory and practical components
Covers Anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system, indications and contraindications, needling techniques, pain management, safety and hygiene, and legal and ethical considerations
Skills Gained Trigger point identification, needling technique, depth and angle control, adjunctive approaches, hygiene and safety protocols, and client communication
Suitable For Qualified manual therapists seeking to expand their treatment offering

Content

This workshop is heavily practical in focus — grounded in the essential theory but weighted towards hands-on technique, guided practice, and tutor feedback to ensure you leave confident and ready to needle from day one.

  • Functional Muscle Anatomy and Myofascial Trigger Point Referral Patterns
  • Anatomic and Physiologic Characteristics of the Myofascial Trigger Point
  • Trigger Point Identification by Palpation
  • Indications, Contraindications and Possible Complications
  • Needling for the Shoulder, Arm and Hand
  • Head, Neck, Trunk, Abdominal and Low Back Muscles
  • Hip, Leg and Foot Muscles
  • Pain Management Strategies and Clinical Applications
  • Diagnosis and Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
  • Hygiene, Safety and Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • Assessment, Adjunctive Therapies and Patient Communication
  • Hands-On Practice and Tutor Feedback

Fees

Course fees for the National Qualification in Myofascial Trigger Point Needling are outlined below. Both modules must be completed to achieve the qualification.

Payment Option Details
Full Fee (Both Modules) €1,200
Deposit to Reserve Place €400 (non-refundable — balance of €800 due by the Friday before course start date)
ANMT Member Discount 10% off — www.anmt.ie

Contact us on +353 1 882 7777 for further information.

Eligibility

This course is open to qualified manual therapy professionals with a clinical background and practical experience in hands-on treatment. All participants are expected to take part in the hands-on portion of the course and are fully insured by NTC while participating.

Entry Requirements
Primary Qualification National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy or equivalent — view course
Also Eligible Professionals with a background in medicine, physiotherapy, osteopathy, acupuncture, or equivalent clinical discipline
Post-Qualification Insurance Graduates must hold valid professional indemnity insurance in order to practise

If you are unsure whether you meet the entry requirements, please contact us on 01 882 7777 or info@ntc.ie before booking.

Support

This is a nationally recognised qualification programme. Assessment is conducted throughout both modules, with continual formative feedback from tutors to support your progress and development.

Assessment and Certification
Assessment Type Continual formative assessment and tutor feedback across both modules
Certificate National Qualification in Myofascial Trigger Point Needling
Demonstrates Competence in dry needling technique and clinical application, and commitment to ongoing professional development
Learning Support Full online documentation and 40 demonstration videos available via the NTC Learning Portal
Dates & Availability

Ready to Add Myofascial Triggerpoint Dry Needling to Your Practice?

Secure your place now — this qualification is delivered across two modules, each spanning a full weekend, with strictly limited availability.

Dublin

Two Full Weekends · On-Site

Good Availability
April 18th 2026
Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm
Module 1 - April 18th and 19th 2026
Module 2 - May 16th and 17th 2026
Please note that although unlikely, date may be subject to change

NTC, Dublin City Centre

Dublin

Two Full Weekends · On-Site

Good Availability
September 19th 2026
Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm
Module 1 - Sep. 19th and 20th 2026
Module 2 - Oct. 17th and 18th 2026
Please note that although unlikely, date may be subject to change

NTC, Dublin City Centre

Your Instructors

Meet your Team

Only fully qualified tutors deliver the Myofascial Triggerpoint Dry Needling course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.

John Sharkey, MSc
John Sharkey
John Sharkey, MSc

John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.

John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.

John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.

Cristopher Alejandro, MSc.
Cristopher Alejandro, MSc.

Cristopher’s journey to becoming a Physiotherapist began in the Philippines, where he pursued his undergraduate degree. After completing his studies, he began working at a rehabilitation center, where he gained valuable experience working with patients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. His passion for helping people heal and achieve optimal physical function led him to pursue further education.

Over the years, Christopher has become an expert in his field, and his area of speciality in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling has become a sought-after technique by many. This is a technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into trigger points within the body’s muscles to alleviate pain and promote healing. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the human body, Christopher is skilled at identifying trigger points within the muscles and applying the appropriate techniques to promote healing.

As a teacher, Christopher has been involved in several NTC bodywork educational programs, sharing his expertise and knowledge with students. His unique approach to teaching has helped to shape the way course content is taught, and his students benefit from his practical approach to learning. He is passionate about teaching and empowering students to help their patients achieve optimal health and wellness.

In addition to his teaching work, Christopher also runs a private practice where he provides treatment for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole person and tailoring his approach to meet the individual needs of his patients.

Christopher’s dedication to his work and his passion for helping people heal has made him a highly respected member of the healthcare community. Through his expertise in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling and his commitment to teaching, he has made a significant contribution to the field, and he continues to inspire and help others every day.

Before you register

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an existing qualification to participate on this course?

Can I get a grant for course fees?

Will I need to get insurance?

Still have questions?

Our team is happy to help before you register.

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

July 2025 –  26th♦
August 2025 – 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
September 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
October 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th♦, 25th
November 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 30th
December 2025 – 6th & 7th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

July 2025 –  29th, 31st
August 2025 –  5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
September 2025 –  2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th, 30th
October 2025 –  2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

November 2nd, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
National Training Centre, Dublin
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When did your course begin?

National Training Centre, Dublin City
15–16 St Joseph's Parade, Dorset Street, Dublin D07 F6CR

Myofascial Trigger Point Dry Needling

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