On Tuesday, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt had successful surgery to fix a partially collapsed lung. The injury came after a dry needling procedure at the team’s practice facility on his day off. Watt was hospitalized on Wednesday due to complications from his treatment, including a possible infection. He remained in the hospital on Thursday for imaging and tests prior to surgery.
Watt’s brother, J.J. Watt, announced the surgery on social media, providing fans with an update on his sibling’s condition. After the procedure, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin announced that T.J. Watt was back home and resting comfortably. He’s not expected to play in this week’s Monday night game. This is true in regard to his performance in last week’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins.
T.J. Watt though was on his way to an all time great season before his injury. In only 13 games, he tallied seven sacks, produced three forced fumbles, and made one interception. He even totaled 18 quarterback hits and 10 tackles for loss. His production over the years has gotten him recognized as a four-time All-Pro and former Defensive Player of the Year.
The case that resulted in the lacerated lung is a clear reminder that dry needling practices among athletes should be questioned due to their safety risk. So, as you can see, many players depend on these treatments to recover. Many, including Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen, have voiced fears over the process.
“I don’t do the whole dry needle thing. I’m actually scared of dry needling, so I kind of stay away from that stuff.” – Patrick Queen
He added, “It is unfortunate. You could probably get dry needle a thousand times and never have anything happen, and it just probably a half an inch in the wrong direction.”
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) stands behind T.J. Watt and any player who prioritizes their health. Their attention has turned to helping him in every way possible to make a full recovery following this life-altering ordeal.
Coach Mike Tomlin declined to elaborate on the details of how the injury occurred. At the same time, he credited Watt’s influence over the culture of the team.
“I think T.J.’s done a great job of being a leader, not just in the room but in the whole building, the organization,” – Nick Herbig
The serious nature of this incident reminds us all about the dangers of many available recovery treatments in pro sports. As former Steelers linebacker James Harrison noted, dry needling is sometimes a more intrusive technique. He warned that this approach was not right for every musician.
As T.J. Watt heals up after surgery, the Steelers will need to find a path through their next few games without their star linebacker. Needless to say, the team is wishing Watt a speedy recovery, and with good reason too, as the defensive force is having his way with offenses all season long.
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