Physiotherapists use acupuncture to provide pain relief and is sometimes referred to as ‘dry needling’. It is a therapy adjunct, which means we won’t just leap straight in and pepper you with needles!
We are not acupuncturists; we are physiotherapists who use acupuncture. This means we will still need to conduct a physio assessment first to determine the best course of treatment. Other services we provide, such as the K-Laser or shockwave therapy, may be more successful and suitable for your condition.
If we determine that acupuncture would be a good treatment for you, we can start a treatment programme.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine stainless steel needles into the skin. It has been used in China for over 2,000 years and increasingly in Western medicine since the 1970s. Acupuncture may be used to treat a wide range of common health problems and to reduce pain.
How does it work?
Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce endorphins and oxytocin, its own pain and stress-relieving chemicals. It promotes sleep by stimulating the release of melatonin in the body. It encourages a sense of well-being by stimulating the release of serotonin. Acupuncture also stimulates nerve fibres to block out pain signals and helps to reduce the sensitivity of tender points in the body.
Although acupuncture treatments are often cumulative, a number of people will experience beneficial effects from their first treatment; however, do not be deterred if you feel little to no effects immediately; people respond at varying rates due to many other bodily factors playing a part. It is also not unusual in the first 24 hours post-treatment for symptoms to increase before experiencing a marked improvement.
A very small number of the population may not respond to acupuncture treatment; however this is extremely rare.
Acupuncture is considered a very safe treatment option when carried out by fully qualified professionals. The treatment session will be carried out by a qualified AACP (Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists) registered physiotherapist. All AACP members have completed comprehensive training and are fully qualified/insured to treat in addition to their chartered physiotherapist status.
Treatment needles are sterile and single-use, disposed of by the clinician after each use in a suitable sharps disposal unit.
Acupuncture can be considered safe when practised by a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) because of the strict hygiene guidelines that must be adhered to.
In addition to this, all AACP members are required to undertake continued professional training, which they must evidence annually in order to maintain their membership.
Are there any side effects?
Generally, side effects are non-existent or confined to slight bruising. Possible side effects may include:
- fatigue
- light-headedness
- bruising
- localised blood spotting
- tenderness or redness where needles were inserted
If you feel tired after a treatment, it is recommended that you do not drive or operate machinery and rest where possible. It is also advisable to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Usually, a patient will require a course of 4-6 sessions of acupuncture.
