Focus on…… Acupuncture – an Introduction

Posted on 2nd Feb 2022 at 2:29pm

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points of the body along meridian lines. The techniques that we practise are derived from the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) but combined with our expertise and knowledge of the physiology (functioning) of the human body.

 

Did you know?

  • Physiotherapists are the largest group of healthcare professionals in the UK practising acupuncture.
  • The vast majority of acupuncture treatments in the UK are for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions (AACP, 2022). The MSK system is made up of the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissue structures.

 

Acupuncture is often used as part of an integrated approach to managing pain and inflammation. It may be viewed as another “tool” in our physiotherapy “toolkit.” Put simply, acupuncture stimulates the brain and spinal cord to produce the body’s own pain relieving (analgesic) and healing chemicals to facilitate recovery and rehabilitation. Acupuncture also stimulates nerve fibres to block out pain signals and can help to reduce the sensitivity of tender points in the body (AACP, 2022). Used in conjunction with manual therapies and exercise we can enhance the physiotherapy treatment and achieve a greater outcome.

 

The physiotherapists practising Acupuncture at our clinics are members of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and are governed by their code of practice. All needles used are single use and pre-sterilised.

 

Physio and Health Matters are on hand to restore your health, call us to book an appointment or request further information.