Acupuncture:

What is acupuncture?

A therapeutic method used to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain and improve function of affected areas of the body. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles through the skin and tissues at specific points on the body. Modern technology has allowed variations in acupuncture treatment. Electro-acupuncture involves stimulation of inserted needles with gentle electrical impulses. Rubber electrodes or moistened cotton-tipped applicators can also be used to deliver electrical stimulation to acupuncture points. Low power laser may also be used instead of needles to stimulate appropriate points.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own pain relieving chemicals called "endorphins". Endorphins help to block pathways that relay pain messages from the body to the brain, resulting in relief of pain, general relaxation and biochemical restoration of the body's own internal regulation systems. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture stimulates the body's natural healing abilities, reducing inflammation, and promoting physical and emotional well-being.

The benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of physiotherapy problems, including:

• Sciatica, Low back pain, Tennis Elbow, Head Aches, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, plantar fasciitis and many more.   

In treating any illness or affliction, a correct diagnosis is important before any decisions are made regarding therapy; consult with a qualified practitioner.

Does it hurt?

People experience differing sensations with acupuncture. Most patients feel only minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there should be no significant discomfort. Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and made from stainless steel. Two or three acupuncture needles would fit inside the barrel of a regular hollow needle used for injections.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments will vary with each individual and the condition being treated. For acute problems, only a few treatments may be required. In some cases, one treatment will be sufficient. For complex or longstanding conditions, one or two treatments a week for several weeks may be recommended with less frequent treatments as improvement occurs. Treatment sessions usually last between 15 and 30 minutes. Relief may be immediate or occur within a few hours or a few days. In some conditions, several sessions may be required before improvement is noticed. 80%-90% of patients respond well to acupuncture with noticeable improvement.