May 29, 2026
Important Update: Separate Acupuncture and Dry Needling Rosters in Manitoba
Exciting news for Manitoba registrants — Please be advised that there will now be two distinct rosters in Manitoba: one for Acupuncture and one for Dry Needling.
On May 7, 2026, the Council passed a motion that separates the requirements and rosters for Acupuncture and Dry Needling in Manitoba. This decision followed extensive communication with registrants regarding a separate roster for dry needling as well as ongoing discussion with the Legislative Unit with the Manitoba government. The new Dry Needling roster will come into effect on December 1, 2026. To allow time for registrants to prepare for this change in practice, the College will offer a transition period from June 1st to October 31st.
Council is committed to clearly communicating this change in a staged approach to Manitoba registrants.
Stage 1: New Practice Direction launched
Please be advised that the new Practice Direction Use of Needles in Practice, has been posted on the website. This updated standard outlines the new requirements for the separate and distinct Dry Needling Roster. This includes the curriculum, principal instructor, and examination requirements. Please take time to review this document.
Please note, the requirements related to Acupuncture have not changed in this Practice Direction.
Stage 2: Launch of an associated guide: Use of Needles in Practice Communication
Council will release the guide Use of Needles in Practice Communication, which will be available in the Professional Development and Committee Portal on June 1, 2026. This detailed guide will provide more information on the requirements for the Dry Needling roster, pathways to notation during the transition period, the application process and FAQs.
Please Note: This guide will also include information on the change to the roster application process for Acupuncture to align with the application process for dry needling which will come into effect June 1, 2026.
Stage 3: Virtual Lunch and Learn June 24, 2026
Following release of the Use of Needles in Practice Communication, the College will offer a Lunch and Learn opportunity on June 24th for registrants. More information on how to register for the Lunch and Learn will be made available in early June.
We understand that this change may leave registrants with questions. Please take time to review the Practice Direction currently available and the Use of Needles in Practice Communication available in the portal June 1, 2026. If you have questions after reviewing both pieces of information, please send these by email to info@manitobaphysio.com or bring these questions to the Lunch and Learn session.
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