Dry needling sounds a little intense, doesn’t it? A therapist inserting tiny needles into your muscles to release tension—what could go wrong? Honestly, not much. It’s generally very safe, especially when done by someone who knows what they’re doing.
But occasionally, a needle might hit a nerve. And if that happens, you’re probably going to feel it.
Let’s break down what that feels like, why it happens, and what to do if it does.
So… What Is Dry Needling Again?
Dry needling is a technique physical therapists use to target “trigger points” in your muscles. These are those tight, painful knots you might feel when your back or neck is super tense. By inserting a thin needle into that trigger point, your therapist helps the muscle relax. It’s kind of like hitting the reset button for your body.
While the main goal is to release tension and get you moving better, dry needling is all about precision. And with so many nerves running throughout your body, there’s always a slim chance a needle could hit one.
What Does It Feel Like If a Needle Hits a Nerve?
If a needle happens to touch or irritate a nerve, you’ll know. The sensation is usually pretty distinct:
- You might feel a sharp zap or a quick electric shock
- There could be a sudden jolt or twitch in your muscle
- Sometimes people describe it as a tingling rush or a weird “zing”
It might catch you off guard, but the good news is that it’s almost always short-lived. A quick adjustment and the sensation usually disappears within seconds.
Is It Dangerous?
The short answer: not usually. Most of the time, nerve contact just causes a temporary jolt or tingling. Your body is resilient, and nerves typically bounce back pretty quickly.
In rare cases, if a nerve is irritated more than usual, you might feel lingering numbness or pins-and-needles for a few hours or even a day or two. It’s uncommon, but it’s worth paying attention to.
At Simply Physio, we always check in throughout your session. If something doesn’t feel right, we’ll pause, adjust, and make sure you’re comfortable.
Why Would a Nerve Be Hit in the First Place?
Our bodies are full of nerves—like electrical wiring running through the walls of a house. Some nerves are deep, others are more superficial. In certain spots, nerves and muscles are really close together. Even with the best knowledge of anatomy, there’s a tiny risk that a needle could brush a nerve.
It’s not about being careless—it’s just one of those rare things that can happen in a complex system like the human body. That’s why working with an experienced, trained therapist matters so much.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Most unusual sensations during dry needling go away quickly, but here are a few signs to keep an eye on:
- Tingling or numbness that sticks around longer than expected
- Muscle weakness in the area
- Increased sensitivity, burning, or discomfort that doesn’t improve after a day or two
If any of those symptoms linger, don’t wait—give your therapist a call. They’ll know what to look for and help you figure out the next step. Sometimes, gentle stretching or nerve gliding exercises can help ease things back to normal.
What Can You Do to Prevent It?
The best prevention is choosing the right provider. At Simply Physio, our therapists are trained to understand exactly where those nerves run and how to avoid them. We also:
- Take time to explain the process so you know what to expect
- Check in with you throughout your session
- Use clean, precise techniques to keep things safe and effective
If something doesn’t feel quite right during a session, just say so. Dry needling shouldn’t feel scary—it should feel like you’re taking control of your pain and mobility.
What If You’re Nervous to Try Dry Needling?
That’s totally normal! A lot of people feel unsure at first. But after their first session, most are surprised by how little it actually hurts—and how much better they feel afterward.
We’re happy to walk you through it, answer any questions, and let you decide whether it’s the right fit. No pressure, no pushiness—just real conversations about your goals and what might help you get there.
Ready to Feel Better?
If you’ve been dealing with stubborn pain, tension, or mobility issues, dry needling could be one piece of your solution. At Simply Physio, we don’t just treat symptoms—we get to the root of what’s going on and help you move forward.
Curious? Want to talk it through? We’d love to hear from you.
Reach out today to schedule a visit or ask a question—we’re here to help.