Acupuncture
Most of our chartered physiotherapists are qualified to use acupuncture
within their physiotherapy treatment. We also have a specialist
Acupuncture practitioner.
Acupuncture explained:
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment which has been practised
in China and the Far East for thousands of years. It is used both
as a means of pain relief and also to treat people with a wide
range of illnesses. Its focus is on improving the overall well-being
of a person, rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, energy flows through
the body along channels or meridians. If this flow becomes disrupted
then ill-health may occur. By placing fine needles into these
channels at specific points it is possible to nourish energy in
the places where it is needed and ‘unblock’ energy
where it is stuck, thereby restoring balance and health to the
body. This way treatment can be used not only to treat the presenting
problems but to address underlying imbalances.
At your first visit
We will ask you about your current symptoms and what treatment
you have received so far, your medical history and that of your
close family, your digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional
state. The practitioner may feel your pulses on both wrists to
discover how the energies are flowing in your body. Also, the
structure, colour and coating of your tongue can be a guide to
your physical health.
Treatment
Acupuncture needles are very fine and quite unlike those used
for injections and blood tests. As they are inserted, you may
feel a tingling sensation or a dull ache. Needles are inserted
either for a second or two, or left in place for up to 20 minutes
or more, depending on the effect required. During treatment you
may experience a heaviness in your limbs or a pleasant feeling
of relaxation. Don’t be surprised if a needle is inserted
in a different part of your body from where the problem is. For
example, although you may suffer from headaches, needles may be
inserted in your foot or hand.
On the day of your treatment, please:
- avoid eating for two hours beforehand
- avoid alcohol
- wear loose, comfortable clothing
Acupuncture can help these conditions:
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Back Pain
- Circulation
- Depression
- Fibrositis
- High Blood Pressure
- Menstrual Problems
- Aches & Pains
- Migraines
- Rheumatism
- Sciatica
- Skin Conditions
It is also helpful for people trying to overcome addictions,
such as those related to smoking, alcohol, food or drugs
Many people find that acupuncture treatment not only helps with
a particular condition, but can also lead to increased energy
levels, better appetite and sleep, as well as an overall sense
of well-being.
The effects of Acupuncture treatment
Sometimes the effects of the treatment are dramatic and only one
or two treatments are required. With other people, the effects
are more subtle and treatment may take longer. Normally you are
recommended to visit your acupuncturist once or twice a week at
first, although some conditions may need less frequent attention. |
