A flow element (50) for use with flexible needles and flexible needleassemblies (10) to minimize flow occlusionwithin a flexible needle (15) is provided. The flow element (50) isparticularly suited for uses with a flexible needle (15) forminimizing incidence of post-dural puncture headache. The flow element (50)includes a body having an internal flow path forconducting a fluid through a flexible needle, and an anti-restriction member(56). The anti-restriction member (56) includes anelongated body (58), a proximal end (70) coupled to the body within theinternal flow path, and a distal end (60) for positioning atleast a portion of the elongated body within a flexible needle. A flexiblespinal needle assembly (10) for minimizing flow occlusionthrough an internal flow path of a flexible needle (15) by unintended kinkingthat is potentially caused by ligament or musclelayer movements is also provided, hi other embodiments, a flexible spinalneedle assembly (10), a flexible spinal needle assemblykit, a method for installing a flexible spinal needle assembly, and a processfor producing a flow element are provided.