Which of the following is a common side effect of dry needling?

Fatigue is a recognized and common side effect of dry needling. This can occur as a result of the body’s response to the needling process, which can stimulate the muscle tissue, release muscle tension, and initiate healing responses. The physical manipulation and the activation of trigger points can lead to temporary fatigue as the body adjusts and heals.

On the other hand, while some individuals may experience mild dizziness or nausea, these are less frequently reported in association with dry needling. Local infection is a potential risk when needles are improperly handled, but appropriate techniques greatly reduce this risk, making it less common in clinical practice. Therefore, fatigue stands out as a more immediate and common reaction that practitioners and patients may encounter after a dry needling session.