West nile virus-induced neurologic changes - IDN Clinical Questions and Discussions https://integrativedryneedling.com/community/idn-clinical-questions/west-nile-virus-induced-neurologic-changes/ Integrative Dry Needling Discussion Board en-US Sat, 16 May 2026 02:46:58 +0000 wpForo 60 RE: West nile virus-induced neurologic changes https://integrativedryneedling.com/community/idn-clinical-questions/west-nile-virus-induced-neurologic-changes/#post-708 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 03:04:57 +0000 Hi Jessie! 

I would definitely be curious to see what his EMG shows. How severe were his symptoms? Was he hospitalized/bed bound for a period of time? 

As long as he has sensation to pin prick, I would be comfortable needling him.  I'd focus on paravertebrals C5-C6 then shoulder homeostatics such as suprascapular/lateral pectoral. 

I'd also needle along the axillary nerve distribution.   ENS may be helpful as well to facilitate neuro reeducation. 

]]> IDN Clinical Questions and Discussions Natalie https://integrativedryneedling.com/community/idn-clinical-questions/west-nile-virus-induced-neurologic-changes/#post-708 West nile virus-induced neurologic changes https://integrativedryneedling.com/community/idn-clinical-questions/west-nile-virus-induced-neurologic-changes/#post-686 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:29:45 +0000 I have a super fascinating client that I'm trying to decide if is an appropriate candidate for IDN. He is a 40 some year-old male presenting to me in clinic for shoulder complaints. He was severely ill after contracting West Nile virus about 2 months ago, then after he recovered noticed he could no longer raise his arm up with ongoing weakness.  He has the most prominent scapula I've ever seen with what presents as not only LTN palsy / winging, but also suprascapular N palsy (minimal-no ER strength) and visibly evident muscle atrophy.  I chatted with his PCP about above findings, and he is going to order an EMG. 

Would love any thoughts. Neuroinvasive WNV is rare from what I've gathered, and there isn't a lot of research on prognosis as it can widely vary. Although WNV is not spread through direct contact, I did see that recommendations include avoiding blood transfusions or organ donation for 3 months just as slight infection risk, so was thinking regardless if I deem appropriate candidate for needling would wait 3 months in case of accidental prick injury. 

Thanks in advance!

]]> IDN Clinical Questions and Discussions JESSIE TIEN https://integrativedryneedling.com/community/idn-clinical-questions/west-nile-virus-induced-neurologic-changes/#post-686