Dry Needling Appointment Consent and Information

What is Dry Needling (DN) and how can it help me?

Dry needling is a technique that involves the insertion of solid filament needle into the soft tissues of the musculoskeletal system. This can help resolve pain and muscle tension and promote healing within the body. Treatment techniques are based on the concepts of modern medicine and should not be considered acupuncture. DN is not intended to replace other customary components of your treatment program such as other forms of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise or modalities such as electrical stimulation (which in some cases may be combined with your needling treatment). Prior to DN, it is recommended you be well hydrated and have not eaten for at least 30 mins before your treatment.

What are the complications that could arise from a DN treatment?

Like any treatment, there are possible complications that can arise from DN. While complications are rare in occurrence, they are real and must be considered prior to giving consent to treatment. As with any type of needling there is a small risk of infection. That potential risk is kept very low as we only use new, sterile, single-use disposable needles and practice universal precautions. The most serious risk with DN is accidental puncture of the lung (pneumothorax). If this were to occur, it may likely require a chest x-ray and no further treatment. A more severe puncture can require hospitalization and re-inflation of the lung. This is a rare compilation, and in skilled hands it should not be a major concern. Symptoms of a pneumothorax include shortness of breath, coughing or sudden sharp pain with breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms within 24 hours of your DN treatment to the chest area, seek immediate medical attention. Fainting may also occur but is very rate if the patient communicates with the practitioner about a sudden onset of symptoms.

What are the complications that could arise from a DN treatment?

During a DN treatment you may experience temporary: pain, muscle ache or twitch, sweating, bleeding, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, change of emotion.

After a DN treatment, you may experience temporary (1-2 days): muscle soreness, muscle tightness, bruising, paresthesia or joint stiffness.

What conditions does my PT/AT need to know about before DN treatment?

To avoid additional risks, and to help your clinician determine if DN is an appropriate intervention for you, please notify them if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Circulation disorders

  • Taking blood thinners

  • Pregnancy

  • Pacemaker or other implant

  • Osteopenia or Osteoporosis

  • Bleeding or clotting disorder

  • Diabetes

  • History of cancer/skin cancer

  • HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis B or C

  • Metal Allergies

  • Fainted or had a seizure

  • Damaged heart valve

  • Infection

  • Eaten in the last 2 hours

  • Fear of needles

By voluntarily scheduling a Dry Needling Appointment, you are consenting to the below statement:

I understand that no guarantee or assurance has been made as to the result of this procedure and that it may not cure my condition. My therapist has also discussed with the probability of success of this procedure, as well the probability of serious side effects. Multiple treatment sessions may be required, thus this consent will cover this treatment as well as consecutive treatments by this facility. I have read the above; I understand the risks involved with dry needing. I have already or will notify my PT of any potential conditions I have that might present a concern for DN. I understand that I will have the opportunity to ask any questions I have and all of my questions will be answered.

Appointment Intention:

I understand that this dry needling appointment is not intended to diagnose, evaluate, or single handedly treat any acute injuries that have not yet been diagnosed by a health care professional. If I have not been officially diagnosed, I understand that I will receive a referral to one of our PTs on staff for further evaluation or a different health care professional.

If you have questions or comments, please contact us at: info@inspiredathletx.com or by phone at 952-322-7383.