Dry needling is a therapeutic technique where thin needles are inserted into trigger points or tight muscle areas to relieve pain and improve movement. While it is a safe and effective treatment for many, accidentally hitting a nerve can evoke curiosity and concern. What happens when dry needling hits a nerve?
When a needle accidentally stimulates a nerve, it can cause temporary discomfort, tingling or even a brief shock-like feeling. However, these sensations usually fade quickly, and the treatment often continues without issue.
In this article, we’ll explore what happens when a needle hits a nerve, and why dry needling can be beneficial despite occasional sensations. Keep reading to gain a clearer understanding of this therapy and how it might help you.
What Happens When Dry Needling Hits A Nerve? A Short Answer
When dry needling hits a nerve, it can cause a quick, sharp sensation that may feel like a brief electric shock, tingling or muscle twitch. While this can be surprising, it’s usually not harmful and the feeling passes quickly. The needle may have stimulated the nerve, which is a normal response during the treatment. Your therapist can adjust the needle if needed to ensure your comfort, and the therapy can usually continue without issue.
Get Professional Dry Needling Treatment at FlexiFit Physiotherapy in Australia
If you’re considering dry needling as part of your wellness or rehabilitation routine, let FlexiFit Physiotherapy be your trusted choice. Our skilled practitioners in Australia are extensively trained to provide treatments that minimise discomfort and prevent nerve damage. With state-of-the-art techniques and a patient-centred approach, we ensure each session is tailored to your specific needs, allowing you to experience the full benefits of dry needling safely and effectively.
Don’t let the fear of discomfort deter you from exploring this effective therapy. Reach out to us at 02 8542 9507 or visit our Contact Us page to discuss how dry needling can help you on your path to recovery and well-being. We’re here to support your health journey every step of the way!
Common Signs Dry Needling Has Hit a Nerve
Dry needling targets muscle trigger points but can occasionally stimulate a nerve directly. Recognising the early signs of nerve involvement can help manage the situation swiftly and effectively. Here are several signs your nerve was hit during dry needling:
Immediate Sharp Pain
When dry needling hits a nerve, one of the most clear and immediate signs is a sharp, intense pain that strikes suddenly. This sensation is distinct and more severe than the usual discomfort or dull ache typically associated with needle insertion into muscle tissue. The pain often follows the path of the nerve from the point of needle contact, suggesting the direct stimulation or irritation of the nerve. This kind of response requires immediate attention from the practitioner to assess and address the situation to prevent further nerve damage.
Tingling or Numbness
Tingling or numbness is a common response when a nerve is impacted during dry needling. This sensation might extend from the site of the needle insertion to different parts of the body along the nerve pathway. Such symptoms are usually indicative of transient paraesthesia, where the nerve functionality is temporarily disrupted. While this is often short-lived, it’s essential to monitor the sensation to ensure it does not persist or worsen, which could be a sign of more significant nerve irritation.
Muscle Twitching
Muscle twitching or involuntary spasms near the area being needled can often occur if the needle comes into contact with a nerve. This reaction is due to the nerve’s automatic response to the unexpected stimulus. The twitching is generally localised but can serve as a vital indicator for the practitioner to adjust the needle placement or technique to avoid further nerve stimulation.
Radiating Pain
Radiating pain that begins at the needle insertion site and extends along specific nerve pathways is a strong indication that a nerve has been affected. This type of pain is sharp and distinct from the general soreness associated with dry needling. It often points to the needle impacting or coming too close to a nerve, necessitating immediate adjustment of the needle or cessation of the session to mitigate discomfort and prevent deeper nerve damage.
Potential Side Effects When Dry Needling Hits a Nerve
When dry needling hits a nerve, the side effects can vary in intensity and duration. Understanding these can aid in identifying and managing potential complications. These side effects are:
Increased Pain
Following an accidental nerve contact during dry needling, an immediate increase in pain is typical. This heightened pain can range from sharp to intense and may last several hours or even days. It’s crucial for individuals undergoing dry needling to inform their practitioner about any sudden increase in pain, as this is a primary indicator of potential nerve impact that may require further medical attention.
Prolonged Numbness
While some numbness might be expected briefly after needle contact, prolonged numbness lasting days or weeks indicates a more serious level of nerve irritation. This sensation, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, such as tingling or pain, suggests that the nerve may have sustained more significant damage. Such cases should be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the extent of the injury and the appropriate course of treatment.
Weakness in the Affected Area
If dry needling impacts a nerve, you may experience a noticeable decrease in strength in the affected limb or area. This weakness results from the nerve’s impaired ability to transmit signals effectively to the muscles, affecting muscular function temporarily. Monitoring and reporting such weakness are crucial as they play a significant role in understanding the extent of nerve involvement and the necessary recovery processes.
Referred Pain
Referred pain is another potential side effect when a nerve is hit during dry needling. This pain is felt in areas of the body that are served by the affected nerve but are distant from the site of needle insertion. Referred pain can help map out which nerve may have been irritated and guide both treatment and preventive measures in future sessions.
Persistent Symptoms
Persistent symptoms, such as pain, numbness or weakness, extending beyond the immediate aftermath of dry needling can indicate a severe nerve injury. Such persistence in symptoms necessitates a thorough professional evaluation to determine the cause and extent of the nerve damage. Management might include medical imaging, consultation with a neurologist or specific interventions aimed at nerve recovery and pain management.
What to Do if Dry Needling Hits a Nerve
If you suspect that a dry needling session has impacted a nerve, taking immediate and appropriate steps can help mitigate the effects.
- Stop the Treatment: If you experience unusual pain or discomfort, notify your practitioner right away. They should immediately stop the treatment by halting further needle adjustments or removing them altogether to prevent further nerve irritation.
- Assess the Situation: Once treatment is stopped, the practitioner needs to evaluate the reaction’s severity quickly. They may manage the situation on-site by applying ice or heat to the affected area and suggesting rest to mitigate any immediate symptoms.
- Follow-up Care: Should your symptoms continue or become worse, consider seeking further medical evaluation. This follow-up care could involve diagnostic tests such as medical imaging or consultations with a specialist to accurately assess and address the nerve impact.
- Rest and Monitor: It’s important to rest the impacted area after the incident and keep a close watch on any symptoms that might develop or intensify in the ensuing hours and days. Documenting any changes can be vital in managing your condition and informing further treatment decisions.
Precautions to Prevent Nerve Injury
Taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of nerve injury during dry needling. By following specific precautions, both practitioners and patients can ensure a safer treatment experience.
- Qualified Practitioner: Always choose a trained and certified practitioner for dry needling. Their expertise ensures they are knowledgeable about anatomical landmarks, reducing the risk of inadvertently hitting a nerve during treatment.
- Clear Communication: Engage in open discussions with your therapist before the procedure. Sharing any experiences, concerns or medical history can help them tailor the treatment approach and avoid areas with higher nerve proximity.
- Anatomical Knowledge: Practitioners should possess a thorough understanding of human anatomy, especially in areas known to contain major nerves. This knowledge allows them to identify potential risk zones and adjust their techniques accordingly.
- Observation and Adjustment: Practitioners should continuously monitor the patient’s responses during the procedure. If any unexpected sensations arise, they can make immediate adjustments to avoid deeper penetration or contact with nerves.
- Use of Ultrasound Guidance: Employing ultrasound guidance can enhance the accuracy of needle placement. This technique provides real-time imaging of underlying structures, helping practitioners navigate around nerves and other sensitive areas effectively.
Closing Thoughts
Dry needling is a helpful treatment for easing muscle tension and pain. While it’s usually safe, a nerve might be hit occasionally, causing pain, numbness or tingling. Noticing these sensations early helps ensure the treatment stays effective and prevents any further issues.
If you feel any unusual effects, getting quick follow-up care is key to a smooth recovery and keeping your trust in dry needling. Make sure your treatment is done by a certified professional who knows how to handle your muscle and nerve systems with care.