AcupunctureWhat is acupuncture?Acupuncture has been used for over 3,000 years. There are many theories as to how the acupuncture has its effects. The traditional (Chinese) view is that energy flows freely when the body is in a healthy state. If there is a problem, energy stagnates which leads to pain. The stimulation of acupuncture points by insertion of a fine needle frees this energy. When stimulating an acupuncture point the brain is stimulated to produce natural pain relieving chemicals called endorphins. These assist the body to heal itself and gain pain relief. Is it safe?Acupuncture is safe when practiced by someone with appropriate training. AACP (Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists) members are trained to use the strictest hygiene; we use single use disposable sterilized needles. Side effects are extremely rare. There are a few cases in which acupuncture is inappropriate. Your physiotherapist will run through a series of questions with you before treatment is started to discover whether there are any contraindications to the use of acupuncture. Will it Work?Research shows that 70% of people gain pain relief with acupuncture. Good results can be achieved when more conventional medicine has failed. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative with a build up of effect as treatment progresses. Some people respond immediately, while others may see little benefit until they have had a few treatments. This is more likely with a long-standing condition. Occasionally the condition may become slightly worse at first. This is not a bad sign as it usually means the condition will respond. Will it be Painful?This is the most commonly asked question. Acupuncture needles are so fine that the prick of the needle as it goes through the skin is barely felt. When the needle reaches the required depth a deep sensation is experienced indicating a movement of energy at the acupuncture point. This only lasts for a second or two, even though the needles are left in normally for about 20 minutes. Why a Physiotherapist?Chartered physiotherapists are in a unique position of being able to combine acupuncture with other natural treatment methods, such as exercise, manual therapy and relaxation techniques. Chartered physiotherapists assess using a detailed examination and plan a treatment with their patients. We work in co-operation with doctors, keeping them informed and referring back when necessary. All members of the AACP who practice acupuncture are trained to give pain relief. Those who have taken further training are registered as advanced members and can include acupuncture in the treatment of many other conditions met in a clinical practice. In these cases treatment aims to help the body balance itself and is not just for the relief of symptoms. Conditions commonly treated by Acupuncture
It is often worth trying acupuncture for conditions which have not been helped by orthodox medicine.
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