What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been used in China for over 2,000 years and is increasingly used in Western medicine for the treatment of various health conditions. When used in physiotherapy it is used to reduce pain, improve sleep and encourages a sense of well-being. Research has shown this is achieved by the release of endorphins and oxtocin, following insertion of the very fine needles.
Whilst it doesn’t work for everyone, it can be a very useful adjunct to our treatments, especially when more conventional treatments have not worked. Generally, patients know after 3-4 sessions whether it’ll work for them.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Acupuncture involve?
If you and the physiotherapist decide that acupuncture or dry needling may be helpful, you will need to sign a consent form and ask any questions you may have.
If you decide to go ahead with the acupuncture, the physiotherapist will get you into a comfortable position. You will need to sit or lie still for up to 20 minutes whilst the needles are in situ so it’s important that you are comfortable.
Very fine, sterile, single-use needles are then inserted into special acupuncture points or trigger points and left for up to 20 minutes depending on the effect we’re trying to achieve.
Who is Acupuncture suitable for?
Anyone from the age of 18 may benefit from acupuncture.
If you’re unsure if we can help you, please give us a call and we can discuss this with you.
How many sessions will I need?
This will vary depending on the condition, how long you have had it and any contributing factors.
Initially you’ll need 3 sessions, usually 7-10 days apart to see if you’re going to benefit from acupuncture. After that you can discuss with your physiotherapist about whether further sessions may be helpful.
Is Acupuncture painful?
Sometimes patients feel a small scratch when the needle is inserted but this is much less sore than a vaccination. Most people are unaware that the needle has even gone in!
Are the results immediate or gradual?
This varies depending on your condition and how long you have had the problem. We like to get you better as soon as possible so we can get you back to doing the things you love to do!
Can I combine this with other treatments?
We almost always combine acupuncture with other physiotherapy techniques, such as exercises, hands on treatments and advice.
The acupuncture aims to reduce the pain, allowing you to rehab more easily.