Acupuncture: Can it actually work for me?
Acupuncture is the practice of using needles to stimulate certain points of your body. Originated in China approximately 3000 years ago, we still use acupuncture today to treat wide range of health conditions. Acupuncture can safely and effectively be used alongside your physiotherapist to get results in any stage of your healthy journey.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is a form of therapy where needles are inserted into your skin to treat pain. Most commonly it is used to treat pain and inflammation. However, increasingly, people are seeking acupuncture to treat other diseases and conditions such as:
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- allergies
- arthritis
- hypertension
- infertility
- insomnia
- menstrual cramps
- mental health
- morning sickness
- respiratory problems
- stress relief
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture
The traditional Chinese acupuncture is based on the idea of your body having the flow of energy or the life force, named Qi (pronounced chee), which performs multiple functions to maintain health. When there is pain or discomfort, this is viewed as having an imbalance or blockage of Qi. Practitioners use needles in specific points of your body to balance or correct its flow.
What is the science behind acupuncture? Does it actually work?
When needles are inserted through the skin and into tissue, it produces a local inflammatory response. This means it is sending messages to your tissues and brain to send in cells that will help fight pain and inflammation. It also activates your body’s natural painkiller chemicals both locally in the tissues as well as neurologically through your nerve cells extending all the way from your brain, through your spinal cord and into your local tissues. Amazing!
It has also shown a promotion of blood flow around that area therefore helping to relieve and restore range of motion.
What to expect during treatment
Our highly experienced acupuncturists at Dynamic Physio blends aspects of traditional Chinese and Western approaches.
When you first come in…
To give you the best treatment, our initial consultation is 60 minutes where your practitioner will ask you about your symptoms, behaviours, and lifestyle. Then you will be examined to see which areas will have the best reactions from the needles.
Needle insertion
Once relaxed and ready, disposable needles that are thinner than your hair, will be inserted in various depth depending on your symptoms. At first you may feel a little prick or a scratch, but they are usually not as painful as getting a vaccine or a blood test. Some people do not feel anything at all! Occasionally, practitioners use a method called needle manipulation, this is when they gently move or twirl the head of the needle. Why do we do this? To confirm the needles are in the right depth and to activate your natural pain-relieving process. If you are feeling a dull ache or tingling, it typically means the treatment is working! Needles stay in between 10 and 20 minutes before it is removed painlessly.
After treatment
Some people feel calm while others feel invigorated. You may be advised to take it easy for the next couple of days. Many treatment plans require more than one session to have an effect, so your provider will chat to you about booking in your next appointment.
Contact Dynamic Physio about Acupuncture
If you are looking to get acupuncture to help with your health conditions, Dynamic Physio is here to help. Give us a call today on 09 4762166 or book online with our very experienced practitioners.
Your first ACC Acupuncture treatment is totally FREE!