What should practitioners ensure about the patient during dry needling procedures?

During dry needling procedures, it is essential for practitioners to ensure that the patient is comfortable and appropriately draped. Comfort is crucial as it helps to relax the patient, which can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and promote a positive experience. Proper draping is important for maintaining the patient's privacy and dignity, as well as helping to expose only the necessary areas for treatment. This care contributes to building trust between the practitioner and the patient, which is vital for the therapeutic alliance and can also influence pain perception during the procedure.

While having a patient with high pain tolerance, familiarity with the procedure, or prior treatment success can be favorable factors, they are not fundamental requirements for ensuring a safe and effective dry needling experience. The primary focus should always be on the comfort and well-being of the patient during any medical procedure, including dry needling.