Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine, originating in China over 3000 years ago. The traditional Chinese theory suggests that the body's energy stagnates when there is disease or injury. They mapped out meridians of energy that run through the body and felt that stimulation by the needles would free the flow of energy and help the body restore itself to a healthy state.
There are other theories as to why acupuncture can be of benefit. In the musculoskeletal environment, trigger points are located within soft tissues and these trigger points will produce and refer pain when active. It is suggested that an active trigger point will be dampened by a stimulus - such as needling.
The only known scientific fact about acupuncture is that it will cause a release of natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins), which are stored in the brain. These chemicals assist the body in its healing process as well as providing pain relief.
Physiotherapists at Central Health may use acupuncture as an adjunct to treatment, especially when pain is a significant factor.
Safety and Hygiene
Acupuncture is safe when carried out by a qualified therapist, who is trained to implement the strictest hygiene. Central Health practitioners use single use, pre-sterilised needles. This eliminates the chance of infectious disease being transferred. There is little risk of any other dangers resulting from acupuncture as long as the therapist has been trained appropriately. Central Health therapists are fully trained and qualified for all acupuncture treatments.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture is not pain free, but the needles are of such a narrow diameter that the level of discomfort at the time of insertion is minimal. Occasionally a greater sensation may be felt; this is believed to signify the movement of energy or "chi".
Side effects are rare. It is possible for a small bruise to appear close to where the needle was inserted and very occasionally a small amount of bleeding will occur. If you have any concerns following acupuncture treatment, please contact your therapist.
Success Rate
Acupuncture does not work for all conditions or patients, but research shows that pain relief is achieved by 70% of patients treated when conventional medicine has not worked. Response rates vary from person to person and it should be noted that sometimes the condition may initially become worse to start with - this is generally felt to be a positive sign.