Dry needling offers relief for many—but for an unlucky few, this increasingly popular treatment can go horribly wrong. When an acupuncture needle punctures the lining of the lung, it can cause a rare but dangerous complication called pneumothorax. 

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious complication from dry needling, the experienced DMV Maryland medical malpractice lawyer team at Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum are here to help. With a track record of success in complex medical malpractice cases, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that can arise from an acupuncture injury. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Dry Needling-Induced Pneumothorax?

A pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, is a rare but dangerous complication of dry needling and acupuncture treatments. It occurs when a needle punctures the lung lining, typically near the chest, back, or shoulder. Air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. While quite uncommon, this serious adverse event demands swift medical attention.

Pneumothorax most often occurs when the practitioner inserts needles:

  • Too deeply

  • At an unsafe angle

  • Into high-risk areas like the upper trapezius muscle (shoulder blade region)

Techniques like "rib bracketing" also elevate risk by aiming needles close to the chest wall. Even seasoned practitioners can unintentionally cause harm if they fail to follow proper safety protocols or adequately warn patients of potential dangers.

Dry Needling vs. AcupunctureAcupuncture on the Skin

Although dry needling and acupuncture both involve inserting thin needles into the body, each has distinct goals and techniques:

Dry Needling

  • Targets myofascial trigger points (muscle knots)

  • Aims to relieve pain and muscle tension

  • Based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles

  • Typically performed by physical therapists, chiropractors, or physicians

Acupuncture

  • Stimulates specific points along energy meridians

  • Seeks to balance qi (life force) and promote overall wellness

  • Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy

  • Practiced by licensed acupuncturists with extensive training

While both therapies carry some risk of pneumothorax, dry needling more commonly targets high-risk areas like the shoulder and chest. Acupuncture points, in contrast, are generally more superficial and less likely to involve deep needling near the lungs.

Regardless of the technique, working with a skilled, properly trained practitioner is essential to minimize risks. Patients should always feel empowered to ask questions, voice concerns, and advocate for their safety during any needling therapy.

What Are the Symptoms of a Collapsed Lung?

Pneumothorax symptoms can vary in severity and onset. Some patients may experience sudden, dramatic symptoms during the dry needling session, while others may not develop signs until hours later.

Immediate symptoms may include:

  • Sharp, stabbing chest pain

  • Sudden shortness of breath

  • Rapid heart rate

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

However, a small puncture may not cause noticeable problems right away. Be on alert for warning signs that can appear hours after treatment:

  • Worsening shortness of breath

  • Persistent chest pain or tightness

  • Unexplained dry cough

  • Unusual fatigue or malaise

  • Decreased breath sounds on one side

  • Bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)

Seek emergency care right away if you experience these or other concerning symptoms. When you arrive at the emergency department, inform the medical team that you recently had dry needling therapy. This critical information can help guide their diagnostic process and ensure you receive appropriate care. A chest X-ray or CT scan can confirm the pneumothorax diagnosis and determine the extent of the lung collapse. Early intervention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

How to Reduce Your Dry Needling Pneumothorax Risk

While no prevention strategy is foolproof, you can take proactive steps to minimize hazards:

  • Provider skill matters. Choose a highly trained practitioner with extensive anatomical expertise and experience. Ask about their education, credentials, and safety record.

  • Demand informed consent. Reputable providers will clearly explain the risks of pneumothorax and answer all your questions before treatment. If your practitioner glosses over safety, consider it a red flag.

  • Opt for low-risk techniques. Some needling methods (like rib bracketing) are more precarious than others. For vulnerable areas, skilled practitioners use safer methods that better protect the lungs.

  • Monitor for delayed complications. Stay mindful of post-treatment symptoms, especially if you plan to exercise. Strenuous activity can exacerbate a small pneumothorax, so err on the side of caution.

Researching your provider's qualifications, asking informed questions, and advocating for your safety can go a long way toward reducing the risks of dry needling. But even with the utmost care, adverse events can still occur—and when they do, knowing where to turn is essential.

When a Dry Needling Collapsed Lung May Be Medical Malpractice

While pneumothorax is a known risk of dry needling, it can also be a sign of medical malpractice if the acupuncturist breached the standard of care. Some examples of negligence that could lead to a collapsed lung include:

  • Improper technique, such as inserting needles too deeply or at the wrong angle

  • Failing to obtain informed consent by not fully explaining the risks to the patient

  • Use of defective or non-sterile needles, increasing the risk of injury

  • Needling high-risk areas without proper training or skill

  • Not recognizing or responding to signs of a pneumothorax during the session

If you suffered a pneumothorax after dry needling and believe any of these factors were involved, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. An experienced attorney can review your case, consult with medical experts, and advise you on your legal options.

It's important to remember that not every complication is malpractice. Pneumothorax can occur even when an acupuncturist follows the proper standard of care. However, if negligence played a role in your injury, you deserve to be compensated for the harm you endured.

Protecting Your Rights After a Dry Needling Pneumothorax

Suffering a collapsed lung from a routine dry needling session is an ordeal no one should experience. Although most patients heal well with prompt treatment of a pneumothorax, it’s crucial to hold negligent practitioners accountable and prevent future suffering. 

If you or a loved one has sustained serious harm from dry needling or acupuncture, an experienced DMV injury lawyer can be an invaluable ally. In a medical malpractice claim, a skilled attorney can:

  • Gather evidence to prove negligence

  • Consult with medical experts to build a strong case

  • Handle all the legal paperwork and deadlines

  • Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement

  • Take your case to trial if needed

Remember, time is of the essence in both medical treatment and legal action. Don't delay seeking the help you need to protect your health and your rights. The dedicated legal team at Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum has a deep understanding of the medical and legal issues surrounding acupuncture and dry needling injuries. We work tirelessly to help patients understand their rights, explore their options, and pursue the justice and compensation they deserve.