Functional Dry Needling

Most side effects are mild, temporary, and self-limiting, lasting from a few hours to 2–3 days.

Mild / Common Reactions

• Local muscle soreness: Feels like post-exercise soreness, usually within 24–48 hours.
• Minor bleeding or bruising: From small capillary punctures.
• Temporary pain or discomfort at insertion site. : Mild aggravation of pain before improvement (a normal healing response).
• Fatigue or light-headedness: Brief dizziness may occur due to autonomic nervous system response.
• Small hematoma formation: Minor blood collection under the skin, typically harmless.
• Nerve irritation: Tingling or numbness if a nerve is contacted (should resolve quickly).

Rare (But Documented) Side Effects

• Fainting or vasovagal reaction: Due to anxiety, low blood sugar, or needle sensitivity.
• Infection: Very rare with proper sterile technique and single-use needles.
• Allergic reaction: Exceptionally rare, typically related to latex gloves or antiseptic used.
• Pneumothorax: A serious but extremely rare complication when needling near the upper back, chest, or neck; caused by accidental puncture of lung tissue.

 Absolute Contraindications

Dry needling should not be performed under the following circumstances:

1. Patient refusal or inability to consent
2. Local or systemic infection, wound, inflammation 
3. Pregnancy
4. Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy hemophilia or on blood thinners 
5. Compromised immune system : HIV, cancer therapy, or immunosuppressive medication.
6. Over major organs or vital structures– lungs, kidneys, major arteries/veins, or heart.
7. Lymphedema
8. Unstable medical condition– uncontrolled hypertension, severe cardiac disease
9. Children or elderly patientschildren under 12.
10. Post-surgical areas : usually <3 months or until full tissue integrity is achieved
11. Near pacemakers or electronic implants