Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin, solid filiform needles into the skin at specific points on the body to achieve therapeutic effects. Importantly, no drugs are injected; the needles themselves create beneficial outcomes. Acupuncture encourages natural healing, enhances mood and energy, reduces or relieves pain, and improves the function of affected areas, making it a safe and effective alternative to medications or surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Acupuncture Do?
Acupuncture stimulates your body to release hormones, such as endorphins—the natural painkillers—helping to alleviate pain and inflammation. Additionally, it can reduce muscle tension and promote improved blood flow.
Does It Hurt?
While you may feel a slight poke as the needles are inserted, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort. After insertion, any initial ache typically subsides quickly, and you shouldn’t feel anything while the needles are in place.
How Big Are the Needles?
The needles used in acupuncture are very thin, about the width of a hair, and are generally short, penetrating approximately 5 to 10 mm into the skin.
How Long Do the Needles Stay In?
Needles are typically left in place for about 10 minutes during a session.
What Are the Side Effects?
Some patients may feel tired after their session, while others report feeling rejuvenated. It’s normal to experience mild achiness after the first treatment, particularly, but this sensation should last only a few hours or may be felt the next day. Drinking plenty of water can help mitigate this feeling.
Due to the hormonal stimulus of acupuncture, some individuals may experience lightheadedness or nausea. To avoid this, we recommend eating something before your appointment. If you have a history of sensitivity to needles, please inform your therapist beforehand.
How Soon Will I Know if Acupuncture is Helping My Pain?
Effects can be felt immediately for some patients, while others may notice improvements later in the day or the following day. Although you may feel initial relief after treatment, it is common for the effects to wane after a day or two. Acupuncture works cumulatively, meaning that each session can lead to more lasting relief, especially when combined with other physiotherapy treatments to address the root cause of your pain.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions required can vary. Generally, 3 to 5 treatments may be sufficient, but if you continue to see improvement, additional sessions may be recommended. If you reach a point where you no longer feel progress, your therapist may suggest discontinuing acupuncture.
Is There an Additional Charge for Acupuncture in My Physiotherapy Treatment?
No, if you and your therapist determine that acupuncture will aid in your recovery, it is included in the price of your treatment. Alternatively, acupuncture can be purchased as a standalone service for those not requiring physiotherapy.
What Is the Difference Between Physiotherapy Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Acupuncture?
Physiotherapy acupuncture specifically targets musculoskeletal conditions and pain, focusing on reducing inflammation and abnormal muscle tone. It is performed by a qualified physiotherapist who has completed accredited acupuncture training. This approach typically uses fewer needles and shorter application times compared to traditional Chinese acupuncture.
Traditional Chinese acupuncture, on the other hand, is billed separately and performed by practitioners with a degree in Chinese acupuncture. This method aims to balance the body’s yin and yang energies and addresses a broader range of issues, such as migraines, digestive problems, fertility, and stress.