Dry Needling involves inserting a tiny monofilament needle in a muscle or muscles in order to release shortened bands of muscles and decrease trigger point activity. This can help resolve pain and muscle tension, and will promote healing.
Dry Needling is a valuable and effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain. Like any treatment, there are possible complications. While complications are rare in occurrence, they are real and must be considered prior to giving consent for treatment.
Risks: The most serious risk with dry needling is pneumothorax (air in the chest cavity) and can occur when
needles are placed close to the chest wall. The symptoms of shortness of breath may last for several days to weeks. Other risks include bruising, paresthesia, and infection. Bruising is occurs when an artery or vein is nicked by the needle. Paresthesia (tingling sensation) is caused by a nerve being touched by the needle and is usually brief, but can last a few days. The risk of infection is extremely rare. The needles that are used are new, disposable, sterile needles. The complications are not fatal and are readily reversible.
Patient’s Consent: My therapist has discussed with me the probability of success of this procedure, as well as
the probability of side effects. Multiple treatment sessions may be required/needed, thus this consent will cover this treatment as well as consecutive treatments by this facility. I have read and fully understand this consent form and understand that I should not sign this form until all items, including my questions, have been explained or answered to my satisfaction. With my signature, I hereby consent to the performance of this procedure. I also consent to any measures necessary to correct complications which may result.
Procedure: I hereby give my consent to receive dry needling as part of my physical therapy treatment plan and
understand that I have the right to withdraw consent for this procedure at any time before it is performed.
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