What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of therapy where fine needles are inserted into specific points to stimulate the body's nervous system and brain. This results in the release of endorphins and encephalins (natural pain killers), cortisol (natural anti-inflammatory) and serotonin (natural anti-depressant) amongst others. The needles are often gently stimulated by the therapist to enhance this reaction. 

Scientific Evidence.

Research into acupuncture is on-going, but recent evidence shows significant results especially in respect to pain relief.

Treatment Sessions.

The first treatment will be a short, gentle treatment of approximately 10-15 minutes to monitor for any side effects.  Thereafter treatment times may be longer depending on the method of needling used. Although some may feel immediate benefit, acupuncture commonly has an accumulative effect and response time may vary. Typically an effect would be anticipated by 4 sessions, so if there is no improvement in symptoms by then, acupuncture would normally be discontinued.  Acupuncture will usually be used alongside other physiotherapy techniques such as exercise and manual therapy.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is generally very safe and serious side-effects are very rare-less that one per 10,000 treatments! There are some pre-existing conditions which may exclude patients from receiving acupuncture, these will be discussed with you by your physiotherapist and if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to ask your physio.

Therapists at Physio4you using acupuncture have completed post graduate training in the specialism and are registered with the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP). Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used in the clinic.

If you have any questions or think that acupuncture might help you, why not contact us either by e-mail or phone and we will be happy to answer any queries.