Dry needling is a therapeutic technique involving the insertion of thin needles into specific areas of muscle, often referred to as trigger points, to address muscle pain and dysfunction. These trigger points are tight, irritable knots within muscles that can cause discomfort and restrict movement. Many individuals who undergo this treatment commonly report feeling tired afterward, prompting questions about this post-treatment sensation.
Understanding Post-Treatment Fatigue
Feeling tired after a dry needling session is a common and expected response. This fatigue is a sign the body is reacting to treatment and initiating healing processes. While the intensity can vary from person to person, this sensation is typically temporary. It indicates the body redirects energy towards recovery and repair in the treated areas.
Biological Reasons for Tiredness
Post-dry needling tiredness stems from several bodily responses. When needles are inserted, they create micro-trauma, prompting a local inflammatory response as part of the healing cascade. This includes increased blood flow and healing substances to affected muscle tissue. The body perceives the needle insertion as a minor injury, activating its immune system for repair. Dry needling also influences the nervous system, stimulating neurotransmitters like endorphins and serotonin for pain modulation and mood regulation. The body expends energy repairing muscle tissue, similar to post-workout fatigue. This effort toward recovery can lead to overall tiredness.
Other Expected Sensations
Beyond fatigue, other sensations are common after dry needling. Localized soreness or discomfort at the needling site is frequent, resembling intense exercise. This soreness typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Applying ice or heat, or engaging in gentle movement, can help alleviate this discomfort. Bruising may occur at insertion points as small blood vessels are affected. Usually minor, bruising fades within days to a week. Some people might also experience muscle twitching during the procedure, a sign that the needle has targeted a trigger point, or a temporary feeling of “heaviness” in the treated area.
When to Consult a Professional
While post-treatment symptoms are usually mild, know when to seek professional advice. Contact your practitioner if fatigue is excessive, prolonged (over 24 to 48 hours), or accompanied by severe, unexpected, or worsening symptoms. Persistent or severe pain not subsiding with self-care warrants further evaluation. Rare signs of infection, like increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge at the site, or fever, require prompt medical attention. Report any new or worsening neurological complaints, such as tingling, numbness, or significant weakness, immediately.