Acupuncture
I use acupuncture in the treatment of a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions if indicated. This is usually as part of a treatment programme combined with manual therapy, exercise and advice.
Acupuncture can only be provided in a clinic environment - not as part of a Home Visit.
I also offer acupuncture in the management of:
⁃ Long Covid symptoms of body pain and fatigue
⁃ Pain and swelling related to Rheumatology conditions, such as Rheumatoid arthritis
⁃ Neuropathic pain/symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Syndrome
⁃ Headaches/Migraine
If you are keen to try acupuncture but are unsure whether it is the right treatment option for you, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be able to advise you.
Acupuncture is one of the many skills I use within physiotherapy as an integrated approach to the management of pain and inflammation, and as a means of stimulating the body’s own healing chemicals in order to aid recovery and enhance rehabilitation.
I implement acupuncture within physiotherapy in accordance with clinical and research evidence. Western medical acupuncture was derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine [TCM], an ancient system of medicine which dates as far back as 1000BC.
The body has an innate ability to self-repair. My use of acupuncture enhances these natural self-repair mechanisms to enhance recovery and improve repair timeframes. It 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 and encourages a sense of well-being by stimulating the release of serotonin. Acupuncture can also stimulate nerve fibres to block out pain signals and helps to reduce the sensitivity of tender points in the body. It works in conjunction with other physiotherapy modalities, such as exercise and conditioning.
Conventional acupuncture involves the use of single use, pre-sterilised, disposable needles of varying widths, lengths and materials that pierce the skin at the acupuncture points. I determine the locations of the acupuncture points based upon my assessment of the cause of the imbalance. A number of needles may be used at each treatment session and these are typically left in position for some 20–30 minutes before being removed.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is considered a very safe treatment option when carried out by fully qualified professionals. As a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP), I have completed comprehensive training and am fully qualified and insured to treat in addition to my chartered physiotherapist status. Acupuncture can be considered safe when practised by a member of the AACP because of the strict hygiene guidelines that must be adhered to. In addition to this, I am required to undertake continued professional training, which I must evidence annually in order to maintain my 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.
If you have any concerns about any possible side effects, please speak to me at your appointment.
