Physiotherapy
Acupuncture
Acupuncture as practiced by members of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) is an holistic approach to musculoskeletal pain relief based on over 2000 years of development and refinement in the Far East. All members of the AACP must observe a code of practice which lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation of needles. These procedures provide protection against the transmission of infectious diseases.
According to traditional Chinese philosophy our health is dependent on the body’s natural energy “Qi” moving unhindered through a series of unseen channel “meridians” which are located beneath the skin. Recent research has shown that a large number of the traditional acupuncture points located in these meridians correspond to physiological features known as “trigger points”. A trigger point is an area of increased sensitivity and tone within a muscle which is said to cause a characteristic pattern of referred pain in a related segment of the body. An example might be tender areas in the muscles of the neck and shoulder which can cause headaches.
Most people find acupuncture a pleasant and relaxing experience. There should be little or no pain during the insertion of needles if the physiotherapist is fully trained and experienced. When the practitioner carefully inserts the needles, you may feel a slight tingling sensation. This indicates that the treatment is beginning to have some effect. Sometimes you may feel numbness at the point of entry or an energy transfer along the meridian to another part of the body. Needles are inserted either for a second or two, or left in place for up to 20 minutes, depending on the effect required.
Recent scientific research has shown that Acupuncture stimulates neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and opiods which can dampen down the “pain messages” being sent from the brain. When used in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatment techniques such as manual therapy and appropriate exercise rehabilitation Acupuncture can be extremely effective.
