If you’re looking for acupuncture on Auckland’s North Shore, it’s one of the most effective complementary therapies for musculoskeletal pain and injury, and it’s a service we’re proud to offer at our Milford clinic, with a registered acupuncturist working alongside our physiotherapy team.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. Modern acupuncture retains many elements of the traditional practice and combines them with our current understanding of anatomy and neurophysiology. It is used to alleviate pain, manage the symptoms of stress and bring balance to the body.
Acupuncture works by inserting very fine needles into specific on the body that lie within channels known as meridians. If these meridians become clogged or blocked, you may experience pain, stiffness or tingling in certain areas of your body.
To remove these blockages, we use acupuncture to stimulate acupuncture points, which releases endorphins, triggers anti-inflammatory responses and activates your body’s natural healing processes.
What acupuncture can help with
Acupuncture supports your body’s natural ability to heal, which means it can be used to treat a wide range of injuries and conditions.
ACC covered
Acupuncture for injuries from an accident is ACC covered.
- Musculoskeletal injuries, including injuries of the neck, shoulder, lower back, knee and ankle
Private treatment
Acupuncture can also help with:
- Osteoarthritis
- Digestive issues
- Sleep disorders
- Weight management
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Morning sickness & other pregnancy related symptoms
- High and low blood pressure
See our fees for ACC and private pricing.
What should I expect during an acupuncture treatment?
Before treatment, we’ll have a chat with you about your symptoms, level of pain and lifestyle factors that might be contributing to the issue.
During the procedure, you’ll lie down on a clean, comfortable, padded table. We’ll talk you through the specific areas of the body we’re going to focus on and where we’re going to position the needles. Usually, the needles are inserted around the area of pain, but sometimes the acupuncture points are located elsewhere on your body.
Understandably, many patients are concerned about pain. You can rest assured that acupuncture is not considered painful — in fact, in many cases, you won’t even notice the needles going in!
The needles usually remain in place for 10–20 minutes. During this time, we may gently manipulate the needles to maximise the healing effect. Over the course of the treatment, you’ll feel your body unwinding and relaxing.
It’s one of the reasons our Milford acupuncture clinic has become such a trusted part of patient recovery. Once we remove the needles, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, energised and ready to take on the world.
Expertise and experience
We take a collaborative approach to physiotherapy treatment. Every member of the Dynamic Physio team meets regularly to share knowledge, analyse case studies and discuss the latest research with the aim of continually developing as professionals.
When you book with us, you’re not just seeing one physio — you’re tapping into the collective experience and expertise of every specialist in the Dynamic Physio team.
Acupuncture in Milford
Acupuncture is available at our Milford clinic on Shakespeare Road with James Suh, a registered acupuncturist (AcuNZ, CMCNZ) with a particular interest in musculoskeletal pain and stress-related conditions. Because James works alongside our physiotherapy team, acupuncture can be combined with your physio treatment where that helps.
Acupuncture FAQs
Is acupuncture covered by ACC?
Yes, ACC can contribute to acupuncture for an injury caused by an accident, and you pay a surcharge. Treatment for other conditions is private. See our fees page and our guide to ACC physiotherapy.
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and is provided by a registered acupuncturist. Dry needling is a technique some of our physiotherapists use within a physio session to target tight or sore muscles.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very fine. Most people feel little when they go in, and some notice a dull ache or warmth around the needle, which settles quickly.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally safe when provided by a registered practitioner. We use single-use sterile needles and check your health history first.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you are being treated for. Your acupuncturist will talk you through a plan at your first appointment.
Book acupuncture in Milford
ACC and private appointments available. No referral needed.