Acupuncture

Acupuncture and other pain relief may be used such as TNS.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture originated in china over five thousand years ago and has evolved within a system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM is based on the belief that health is determined by a balance flow of Qi (also referred to as Chi), the vital life energy present in all living organisms. According to acupuncture theory, Qi circulates in the body along twelve major pathways, called meridians, each linked to specific internal organs and the organ system.

The uninterrupted and balanced flow of energy along these meridians contributes to one's overall health. However, blockages and imbalances of the energy flow results in pain and illness. There are considered to be over a thousand acupuncture points on the body that can be stimulated to enhance the flow of Qi. Fine sterile needles are inserted and stimulated at specific points mainly along the meridians just under the skin to stimulate, disperse and restore the normal balance or flow of energy, relieve pain, and treat a variety of chronic, acute and degenerative conditions.

Although acupuncture is an ancient art, its modern day practice is supported by scientific research in line with standard medical practice. At Friarswood physiotherapy clinic both Chinese and Western acupuncture are practiced.

Will it work for me?

Research has shown that most people gain relief from pain with acupuncture. It does not work for everybody and every condition but, frequently, good results are achieved when more conventional medicine has failed. There is nothing spiritual about it, and you don't need to believe in acupuncture for it to work for you. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative, with pain relief building up as treatment progresses. Some people are particularly good responders while others may see little benefit until they have had a few treatments; this is more likely with a chronic condition. Occasionally, the condition may become slightly worse at first. This is not a bad sign as it usually means the condition will respond.

Conditions treated with acupuncture

According to the World Health Organisation and the National Institute for Health acupuncture is useful in the treatment of:

• Chronic and Acute Pain - Injuries, Muscles and Joint pain, Headaches, Neck and Back pain, Sciatica, Tendonitis, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Fibromyalgia
• Neurological Disorders - Bell's Palsy & Trigeminal Neuralgia, Neurological pain and Movement disorders.
• Eye and Ear Disorders - Tinnitus, Meniere's disease.
• Upper Respiratory Disorders - Asthma, Allergies (hayfever etc), Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Sore Throat and Laryngitis.
• Digestive Disorders - Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Gastritis, Heartburn and Food Allergies.
• Urinary and Reproductive Disorders - Cystitis, Menstrual Cramps, Irregular or Heavy Periods, Infertility and Menopausal Symptoms.
• Immune Function - Recurrent infections, Supportive treatment for cancer and AIDS patients.
• Addictions - Addictions to Nicotine, Alcohol and Drugs.
• Depression Anxiety & Insomnia

Why a Physiotherapist?

There are several reasons why you should see a State Registered Physiotherapist if you think you want acupuncture.

Chartered Physiotherapists work in close association with GP's and consultants. They have undergone a 3 year degree based on western medicine before training in acupuncture at a post graduate level. Chartered Physiotherapists are bound by a strict professional and ethical code. Additionally their Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) has its own code of practice. You are therefore assured of safe and effective treatment.

AACP members are in a unique position of being able to combine acupuncture with other natural treatment methods, such as exercise, manipulation and relaxation techniques. All AACP members have undertaken approved training in acupuncture to provide pain relief. Some have undertaken further training and are registered as advanced members of the A.A.C.P.

Health insurance companies only cover acupuncture if it is carried out as part of a chartered Physiotherapist's treatment programme.

Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture needles are very thin and smooth, so when they are inserted you feel only a slight sensation or nothing at all. Once the needles are in place, you may feel a sensation of heaviness, warmth or tingling at and around the site of the needle.

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture has been proved to be extremely safe. Needles are pre-sterilised and disposable to eliminate the risk of disease transmission. Acupuncture at this clinic is only performed by experienced practitioners.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments you will need depends on your overall health, your body's response to acupuncture treatment, and the nature and duration of your illness or injury. Usually within 4 to 6 treatments, your Acupuncturist will be able to tell how much further treatment you will need.

For further information or an appointment please contact the Friarswood Physiotherapy Clinic direct.