Acupuncture & Dry Needling
For thousands of years Acupuncture has been used in the insertion of needles into the skin and underlying tissues in key ‘points’ with the intention of obtaining specific therapeutic results.
Acupuncture & Dry Needling
For thousands of years Acupuncture has been used in the insertion of needles into the skin and underlying tissues in key ‘points’ with the intention of obtaining specific therapeutic results. Acupuncture treatment involves fine needles being inserted through the skin and left in position briefly, sometimes with manual or electrical stimulation. The number of needles varies but may be only two or three. Treatment might be once a week to begin with, then at longer intervals as the condition responds.
How Many Treatments Do I Require?
A typical course of treatment lasts five to eight sessions.
Each patient’s case is assessed by the practitioner and treatment tailored to the individual.
Acupuncture stimulates the nerves in skin, muscle and other tissues, and can produce a variety of effects. We know that it increases the release of the body’s natural painkillers, including endorphin and serotonin, in the pathways of both the spinal cord and the brain. This modifies the way pain signals are received by the brain.
Acupuncture can do more than simply reduce pain however: it seems to have a beneficial effect on the health of some individuals. Patients often notice an improved sense of well-being after treatment. Current research shows that acupuncture can have an effect on many of the body’s systems – the nervous system, muscle tone, hormone production, circulation, and allergic responses, as well as the respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
What is the difference between Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine Acupuncture (Dry Needling)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncturists believe that the underlying principle of treatment is that illness and pain occur when the body’s qi, or vital energy, cannot flow freely. There can be many reasons for this; emotional and physical stress, poor nutrition, infection or injury are among the most common. By inserting ultra-fine sterile needles into specific acupuncture points, a traditional acupuncturist seeks to re-establish the free flow of qi to restore balance and trigger the body’s natural healing response.
The term dry needling also known as myofascial trigger point dry needling and intramuscular manual therapy refers to the use of a “dry” needle, one without medication or injection, inserted through the skin into a muscle. The term originates from the text by Janet Travell9in which they describe the use of hypodermic needles with injection and without in the management of myofascial trigger points.
Electro-Acupuncture
Electrical stimulation has been used for centuries by physicians and physical therapists. The earliest form of electrical stimulation for therapeutic purposes was by ancient Greeks who used electric eels that was placed in foot baths. Patients suffering from ailments such as gout or headache were directed to touch electric fish in the hope that the powerful jolt might cure them.
Electroacupuncture is a common form of treatment, that is used by acupuncture practitioners of both traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine for a wide variety of conditions. It is the application of an electric current to acupuncture needles or electrodes in order to stimulate acupuncture and non-acupuncture points in the management of acute and chronic musculoskeletal and associated disorders.
What to Expect
When you arrive for your appointment your therapist will carryout an initial consultation which will include:
- Asking questions about your problem, general health, medication that you’re taking. This information is strictly confidential.
- Examine you properly. It is likely the therapist will ask you to remove some of your clothing. Tell your therapist if you are uncomfortable about this. You should expect privacy to undress and a gown or towel should be provided. You can ask a friend or relative to accompany you and be present throughout your treatment.
- Ask you to make simple movements and stretches to observe your posture and mobility. Because of the body’s structure, pain or stiffness you are experiencing in one part may be linked to a problem elsewhere.
- Examine the health of the joints, tissues and ligaments using their hands and a highly developed sense of touch called palpation.
What to Wear
t will be necessary for your therapist to carry out an examination and they will require to observe and touch areas of your body causing concern. If you are uncomfortable undressing to your underwear the therapist may be able to suggest clothing, such as shorts and T Shirt, or close fitting garments, that will enable them to work effectively without making you feel uncomfortable, so please do discuss this. You are welcome to bring someone with you into the examination room if this puts you at ease.
Book your appointment here or call 07487 305530.
