Dry needling is a popular and effective treatment method in physiotherapy, especially for muscle complaints and trigger points. Physiotherapy Iburg in Rotterdam we regularly apply this technique to increase your freedom of movement and reduce pain. However, we often get the question: “What are the side effects of dry needling?” In this blog you will read everything you need to know about possible side effects, what to expect after the treatment and when to contact us.
What exactly is dry needling?
Dry needling is a treatment method in which the physiotherapist pricks a muscle with a thin, sterile needle to treat trigger points (“muscle knots”). Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is not based on energy channels, but on Western anatomy and physiology. The goal is to loosen a cramped muscle fiber and improve blood flow, so that the muscle relaxes and the pain decreases.
Common side effects of dry needling
Although dry needling is generally safe and well tolerated by many patients, there may be some mild and temporary side effects occur. These reactions are normal and often indicate that the body is working on recovery. Below is a list of the most common side effects:
1. Muscle pain or stiffness
After the treatment you may experience muscle pain or a sore feeling in the treated area. This is similar to muscle pain after intense exercise and usually lasts 1 to 2 days.
2. Fatigue
Many people feel a bit tired or lethargic after a dry needling session. This is because the body is busy recovering and releasing waste products. We advise you to take it easy after the treatment.
3. Small bruises
Because a needle is inserted into the muscle tissue, a small blood vessel can sometimes be hit. This results in a bruise, which usually disappears by itself.
4. Mild sweating or dizziness
In some patients, dry needling can cause a temporary vasovagal reaction: mild dizziness, sweating or nausea. This reaction usually passes quickly when you sit or lie down for a while.
Less common side effects
Although rare, less common side effects can also occur. These include:
Headache (especially for treatments in the neck region)
Worsening of complaints in the first 24 hours (this is usually temporary and improves after a short time)
Local inflammatory response such as redness or warmth
These reactions are usually harmless and short-lived. If you have any concerns, you can of course always contact our practice.
What can you do to reduce side effects?
At Fysiotherapie Iburg in Rotterdam we give you personal advice after every treatment. However, we would like to share some general tips to minimize side effects:
Keep moving, but avoid strenuous exercise on the day of treatment.
Drink enough water to remove waste products more quickly.
Use heat (such as a hot water bottle) on the treated muscle if it feels painful.
Listen to your body: sometimes rest is the best remedy.
When should you contact us?
Side effects are usually mild, but in rare cases it is wise to contact your physiotherapist. Feel free to contact us if you:
Experience fever or persistent redness
Feels severe pain that does not diminish
Tingling, loss of strength or other neurological complaints develop
Our therapists are specially trained in dry needling and treat according to the highest safety standards. Your health and well-being are always our top priority.
Dry needling at Physiotherapy Iburg Rotterdam
Bee Physiotherapy Iburg in Rotterdam we work daily with dry needling to help people with various complaints. Think of backache, neck complaints, shoulder problems or sports injuries. Our therapists often combine this technique with exercise therapy or manual therapy for optimal results.
We take the time to thoroughly map out your situation and tailor each treatment to your personal needs. Are you unsure whether dry needling is suitable for your complaint? Please feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation.
Do you have questions about dry needling or would you like to make an appointment? Please contact Fysiotherapie Iburg in Rotterdam. We are ready to help you move pain-free again.
