Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with traditional physiotherapy management. Acupuncture refers to the insertion of fine, solid needles into the body for pain relief, healing and general well-being. It has been used by the Chinese people for over 3000 years.
What to expect?
Acupuncture needles are disposable, Single use, pre-sterilised needles. A number of needles may be used at each treatment and these may be left in place for up to 20 minutes. You may feel a pin prick as the needle is inserted into the skin followed by warmth or an achy sensation.
How does it work?
Acupuncture utilises specific points throughout the body but applies it to scientific reasoning with particular consideration to neurophysiology and anatomy. Acupuncture is used to achieve pain relief via the stimulation of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord to release the body’s own pain relieving chemicals, such as endorphins. These chemicals assist the body’s healing process and offer pain relief in conjunction with other manual or manipulative therapy or home exercise programme. Dry Needling or Trigger Point Acupuncture is a form of short term needling to altered or dysfunctional tissues in order to improve or restore function.
Which conditions can be treated with Acupuncture?
A large range of conditions can be treated successfully by physios using Acupuncture. Some of these are:
- acute injuries
- sports injuries
- trigger points
- back and neck pain, including headaches
- chronic injuries
- osteoarthritis
- joint pain
Does acupuncture have side effects?
- drowsiness can occur after treatment in a small number of patients, and, if affected, you are advised not to drive;
- minor bleeding or bruising can occur in about 3% of treatments;
- pain during treatment can occur in about 1% of treatments;
- existing symptoms can get worse after treatment (less than 3% of patients).
- fainting can occur in certain patients, particularly at the first treatment.
If you would like to learn more about this treatment please feel free to arrange an appointment with one of our physiotherapists.