16 Nov Acupuncture Explained
Having recently completed her Acupuncture training with the AACP (Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists), here Nicki Bradshaw talks about the benefits of the treatment and what to expect!
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture has been found to stimulate the body’s production of endorphins, oxytocin and serotonin – naturally occurring chemicals which help reduce pain and promote relaxation and feelings of well-being. It also stimulates nerve fibres which block pain messages and can also be used to reduce tension in tight overactive muscles.
What to expect:
Between 1 and 10 needles may be used during a treatment. The points used and number inserted will vary according to symptom presentation. Usually if you are new to Acupuncture just a few points will be chosen initially in order to assess your response to the treatment, and then further points may be added at subsequent sessions.
The needles are inserted through the skin either close to where your pain is felt, or further away; or a mixture of both. Your Physiotherapist will be able to explain the reasoning behind this based on your particular problem. The needles can be left in situ for up to 30 minutes while you simply relax! Often the needles are gently manually stimulated to enhance the therapeutic and physiological effects.
What conditions can Acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture can help with many painful conditions, both long-standing and more acute.
Examples include chronic pain, back pain, neck pain and headaches, muscle and joint pain, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia and sports injuries.
Our Women’s Health Physiotherapist’s also use Acupuncture for menopausal symptoms, bladder issues such as pain, urgency, frequency, incontinence and prolapse; bowel problems such as IBS and Haemorrhoids; pelvic joint and Coccyx pain as well as period pain, Endometriosis, Vulvodynia and Vaginismus; for Osteoporosis and issues with bone density; and finally in Pregnancy for nausea and pelvic girdle pain read more
So, if you would like to know more about the benefits of Acupuncture, or book in for some treatment with any of our specially trained Physiotherapists…give Halo a call!
Blog compiled by Nicki Bradshaw, Senior Physiotherapist at Halo
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