Hi Sally! 

Thank you for reaching out to clarify.  We recommend no dry needling to the direct area/joint for a minimum of 30 days post op.  This is because if an infection is going to spontanously occur, it's usually within the first 30 days.  Although the risk for infection with needling is low, you don't want to be blamed.   

After the 30 day mark it's best to consult with the surgeon to avoid creating any tension between practitioners.  

You can needle the upper trap and neck safely at this time. 

Is there an article that we can give to our Dr's or other treating clinicians that validate the 30 day rule. We are getting push back from other clinicians that suggest that we wait 12 weeks after hardware placement. 

Hi Sonya,

There is no rule associated with post surgical needling time frame.  That is a decision made with the surgeon - this is especially important when hardware is implanted as any infection (including even getting dental care) requires a higher level of caution since an infection is catastrophic in those cases.