Table 3: Types of Dry needling/acupuncture adverse events by Severity and Frequency.
Data derived from MacPherson et al. (2001) [12], White A (2006) [13], Witt et al. (2009) [20], Brady et al. (2014) [17].
Severity Mild/Minor Significant Serious
Frequency Common: (1-10%) Uncommon: (0.1% - 1%) Rare: (0.01-.1%)
• Bleeding • Prolonged pain • Pneumothorax/Haemothorax
• Bruising • Excessive bleeding or bruising • Other organ puncture
• Pain - during/after • Nerve injury • Infection
• Dizziness • Headache • Broken needle
• Temporary symptoms aggravation • Vomiting • Cardiac Tamponade
• Nausea • Forgotten needles
• Sweating • Seizures
• Fatigue • Extreme fatigue
• Severe Emotional reactions