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.

There is a growing body of scientific evidence and research supporting its effectiveness. We use acupuncture as part of physiotherapy treatments for a wide range of common health problems including pain reduction.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce endorphins and oxytocin, its own pain and stress-relieving chemicals. It may promote sleep by stimulating the release of melatonin in the body and may encourage a sense of well-being by stimulating the release of serotonin.

What happens when I come for physiotherapy?

Please eat and drink normally before and after your appointment, this will help reduce the risk of you feeling faint during your session.

We will complete a consent form during the treatment.

The number of needles used will vary according to your condition and symptoms, but typically will range from 1 to 10 in your first session.

How many sessions will I have?

We use Acupuncture as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatment.

The overall number of treatment sessions required will depend on you, your condition and our assessment. The frequency of treatments will be guided by how you respond to the treatment.

Some people may require just one or two treatments and some a course of 6-10 treatments. Whereas others may want to receive occasional treatments as and when required. It is generally clear after around 3 sessions whether or not acupuncture will benefit you and if the treatment should be continued.

How long until I see an improvement in my condition?

Different people respond in different ways & at different rates. Some people may feel an immediate relief of their symptoms. Others may see a gradual improvement after a few treatments, whereas some may see no benefit. Some people may find that their condition/symptoms flare up, for up to 24 hours after the treatment but then see a marked improvement.

Although acupuncture can help reduce pain, particularly when other more conventional treatments have failed, it does not work for everyone.

Can anyone have acupuncture?

There are certain health conditions that may stop you receiving acupuncture or mean that the treatment should be used with caution. These include the following:

• history of fits, seizures, fainting or if you have epilepsy;
• pacemakers or any other electrical implant;
• a bleeding disorder e.g. haemophilia;
• anti-coagulants or any other medication;
• heart valve problems;
• a risk of active infections;
• being pregnant or trying to conceive;
• a metal allergy – specifically to stainless steel;
• a needle phobia;
• an infection or poor skin condition in the area to be treated;
• a deficient or weakened immune system;
• diabetes;
• low blood pressure;
• prescribed some medicines;
• cold/flu symptoms.

Does acupuncture hurt?

No, it should not be painful. The needles used are very fine. When they are inserted, you may feel a temporary, sharp pricking sensation. Then, you may have a feeling of warmth or ‘fullness’, or a mild ache or discomfort.

You may also feel a little light-headed or relaxed. It should not feel unpleasant. These are signs that your body is reacting to the acupuncture. Alternatively, you may not feel the needle at all.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is a safe treatment when administered by competent physiotherapist. As a result we follow strict guidelines for hygiene and routine training. We are registered with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This means you can donate blood after acupuncture with us.

The needles we use are individually packaged, sterile and disposed of after one use.

Are there any side effects to acupuncture?

Like all treatments, there can be side effects but they tend to be mild and short-lived. They may include: mild bleeding, bruising, mild pain/aggravation of symptoms, drowsiness, dizziness and nausea.

If you continue to feel tired after a treatment, it is recommended that you do not drive or operate machinery.

If you have, or are concerned about any possible side effects, please speak to us.