Integrating electrical modalities and level 2 acupuncture in podiatry

• Open to podiatrists who have completed Course 1or an equivalent **dry needling/introductory acupuncture course
• Intermediate level - not suitable for beginners.
• Evidence of prior training must be provided.

Course overview:
This intensive one-day course builds upon foundational needling skills, focusing on the integration of **electrical stimulation (electroacupuncture)** and **advanced Level 2 acupuncture techniques** relevant to podiatric practice. The course combines theory, evidence-based practice, and supervised practical application.

Learning objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the principles and physiological effects of electrical stimulation when combined with acupuncture
2. Identify appropriate clinical indications and contraindications for electroacupuncture in podiatry
3. Safely set up and apply electrical modalities with acupuncture for common podiatric conditions (e.g., plantar heel pain, neuropathic pain, tendinopathies)
4. Advance their acupuncture technique with Level 2 approaches, including point selection and treatment planning
5. Critically evaluate current evidence supporting electroacupuncture in podiatric medicine.

Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of this course, participants will:

• Demonstrate safe and effective use of electroacupuncture devices in podiatric treatment
• Apply intermediate-level acupuncture protocols tailored to foot and lower limb conditions
• Integrate electrical modalities into clinical practice with confidence and in line with evidence-based guidelines
• Recognise when to incorporate or avoid electroacupuncture to optimise patient outcomes.

• Physiological effects of electrical stimulation
• Clinical indications and contraindications
• Safety and infection control

10:15 - 10:30

10:30 - 11:30 Lecture and discussion: Evidence base for electrical modalities in podiatry

• Review of current research
• Case examples in heel pain, neuropathic pain, and tendinopathy

11:30 - 12:45 Practical Session 1: Introduction to electroacupuncture equipment

• Machine setup and electrode placement
• Demonstration and supervised practice on safe application

12:45 - 13:30 Lunch

13:30 - 14:45 Practical Session 2: Level 2 Acupuncture techniques

• Advanced point selection for foot and lower limb
• Combining manual needling with electrical stimulation

14:45 - 15:00 Break

15:00 - 16:15 Practical Session 3: Clinical application workshops

• Small group work with case-based scenarios
• Designing and delivering treatment protocols under supervision

16:15 - 16:45 Group reflection and Q&A

• Troubleshooting common challenge
• Integrating techniques into podiatric practice