With AACP registered Physiotherapists
What are the benefits of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is most commonly used to treat musculo-skeletal pain, e.g. back, neck, shoulder, knee, elbow, trapped nerves, muscle strains, sports injuries, headaches, migraines and various arthritic and rheumatic pains.
Acupuncture can also help to relieve symptoms of stress and general pain, have anti-inflammatory effects, reduce muscle spasms, improve sleep patterns, lessen the symptoms of menopause and assist general well-being.
Research has shown that acupuncture in combination with other treatment methods such as manual therapy, massage, exercise therapy and electrotherapy, is more likely to lead to successful rehabilitation and is now widely accepted within the NHS and private practice.
What to expect
An initial visit will include an assessment and short treatment. The physio will then recommend a course of treatment as deemed appropriate. Goals of treatment and expected outcomes will be explained, and consent will always be gained before treatment is administered.
Treatment will consist of the insertion of fine needles for a period of 10 to 30 minutes. These are sterile and disposable, ensuring strict hygiene practice. Depending upon the needle point used you may experience no sensation, a pin-prick feeling, a muscle twitch or a mild ache whilst the needle is in place. The therapist may occasionally turn the needle to enhance the effects.
The frequency and duration of treatment depends upon the nature of the condition and the length of time that the patient has suffered from it.
How does it work?
Modern science has shown that the use of fine needles, inserted into specific points of the body, stimulate the brain to release natural pain relieving chemicals (endorphin and serotonin) into the pain pathways of both the spinal cord and the brain. Acupuncture also gives pain relief by modifying the way that pain messages are received and transmitted by the body’s nerve system.
For further information on acupuncture see the aacp.org.uk
Client feedback
“I experienced noticeable improvements after just the first treatment. The lower back area was less sensitive – it had been sore to touch. Immediately the pain had relieved and I could move without wincing or aching.”