Acupuncture originates from traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed that pain, physical symptoms, or illness may be due to a disruption in the body’s energy flow or Qi. Acupuncture aims to alter or restore this energy flow by stimulating specific points on the body using very fine needles. Insertion of these needles also stimulates production and release of the brain’s own natural pain relieving hormones and chemicals, further assisting pain reduction and healing.
The use of acupuncture for muscle/soft tissue or joint disorders disorders is evidence based and widely recognised within physiotherapy. Practice principal, Liam Roberts M.C.S.P., is a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and is highly experienced in the use of acupuncture for various conditions in many patient groups.
What conditions can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can help treat and manage a wide variety of muscle and joint problems, including neck and back pain, tennis elbow, pain related to arthritis, whiplash-induced muscle spasm, myofascial trigger points, Piriformis syndrome, rotator cuff (shoulder) pain, and many other conditions.
Is acupuncture suitable for everyone?
Many people respond well to acupuncture however certain issues may possibly mean that acupuncture is not suitable for you. For example:
- Injection sites or open wounds near the treatment area
- Allergy to metal
- Blood clotting disorder
- Bone-borne virus
- Epilepsy
- Pacemaker
The physiotherapist will take all medical history into account and will discuss with you whether acupuncture is the safest and likely most effective form of treatment.
What happens during an acupuncture treatment session?
Sterile, single-use needles are inserted into the tissues. When the needles are in place you may experience a mild numbness, warmth or heavy feeling in the area being treated. This sensation is known as De Qi and it is an indication that the acupuncture is working, and that local pathways (affecting circulation, nerve signals, chemical and hormone transport) have been stimulated. The needle will usually be in place for 15-20 minutes and the physiotherapist will twist the needles at regular intervals to re-stimulate this De Qi sensation and sustain benefits.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatment sessions is different for each person, depending on the individual themselves, an also the injury being treated. Research has recommended approximately 6-10 sessions however we at K.M. Woods Physiotherapy have often seen marked symptom after only a single sessions.
Are there any side effects of acupuncture?
Acupuncture is generally very safe and serious side effects are very rare. You may feel drowsy or faint after acupuncture and occasionally minor bleeding or bruising can occur around the needle insertion. If there are any particular risks that apply the physiotherapist will discuss these with you.
If you would like more information on acupuncture, an how it may help your pain or symptoms, please call our central practice on 0141 3530906 and one of our physiotherapy staff specially trained in acupuncture will happily give you a call back.
