Acupuncture is one of the many treatment modalities utilised by some Physiotherapists. It is usually integrated into a management programme.
Physiotherapists use acupuncture with a background of clinical and research evidence, although many of the concepts originate from an ancient system dating back as far as 1000BC. Acupuncture in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was founded on the holistic concept that the body has the ability to return to a balanced state of health if provided with the correct stimulus to do so.
Acupuncture at Think Physio involves the use of single use, sterile needles of various lengths that pierce the skin at specific ‘acupuncture’ points around the body. The points selected will be chosen on the basis of a detailed assessment of your condition. A number of needles will be used and may be placed into, near to or away from the site of your pain/problem. The needles are typically left in place for a period of time between 15 and 30 minutes.
Will acupuncture work for me?
Usually following 3 sessions of acupuncture it should be clear whether you will benefit from this form of treatment, some people notice immediate effects following their first session, others require a cumulative effect over a few sessions. Acupuncture, as with almost all forms of treatment, will not help everyone.
Having acupuncture with a Physiotherapist provides you with the opportunity to trial this form of treatment along with other treatment methods such as exercise and manual therapy.
Is Acupuncture a safe form of treatment?
Acupuncture is safe when provided by a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) because of the strict training procedures and hygiene guidelines required to become registered and maintained as a member of this organisation. All members of the AACP are covered by comprehensive professional liability insurance.