Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or ‘life force’, flows through the body in channels called meridians. This life force is known as Qi (pronounced ‘chee’).  Practitioners who adhere to traditional beliefs about acupuncture believe that when Qi cannot flow freely through the body, this can cause illness. They also believe that acupuncture can restore the flow of Qi, and so restore health.

Some scientists and acupuncturists believe that acupuncture may stimulate nerves and muscle tissue, and that this may be responsible for the beneficial effects.

Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of health conditions. Here at the Physiotherapy Room Holmfirth we use it as an adjunct to treatment for musculoskeletal problems commonly conditions such as headache, neck pain, TMJ disorder, sciatica and lower back pain it also helps with stress and anxiety.

Acupuncture is viewed as complimentary therapy however based on scientific evidence and guidelines https://www.bmj.com/content/376/bmj-2022-070533 including guidelines from the NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acupuncture/ we regularly use it as an adjunct to treatment to gain it added benefits

Acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments on offer in the UK.  Any minor side effects that do occur, such as dizziness or bruising around needle points, are mild and self-correcting. The British Medical Journal in 2001 concluded that the risk of a serious adverse reaction to acupuncture is less than 1 in 10,000

For a comprehensive list of conditions  acupuncture can assist with look here https://acupuncture.org.uk/faqs/

NHS overview of acupuncture here

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acupuncture/

Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that acupuncture restores the flow of energy, or ‘qi’ (pronounced chee) within the body. In western acupuncture, we know through research, that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and the body’s own internal pain control system.

https://acupuncture.org.uk/faqs/

What conditions can be treated with acupuncture?

In physiotherapy, western acupuncture is used to treat pain resulting from musculoskeletal conditions. In practice, it is most commonly used in the management of neck and lower back conditions and pain during pregnancy, but it can be used to treat any condition where pain is a symptom. It is particularly helpful in cases where pain relieving medications are not well tolerated or when they may be contraindicated such as in pregnancy.

Is acupunture suitable for everyone?

There are a few health conditions for which acupuncture is contraindicated, i.e. not at all appropriate. We rarely encounter these conditions in a musculoskeletal clinic, so there are very few people for whom it is not an option. It’s worth noting that it is not suitable for anyone who has a needle phobia or is very anxious at the thought of acupuncture. Other conditions such as diabetes, being prescribed blood thinning medications and pregnancy are conditions we need to be aware of, but we can proceed with caution.

Does it hurt?

There is usually a little bit of discomfort as the needles are initially inserted, but once the needles are in place, they should be fairly comfortable. The needles are usually ‘re-stimulated’ (twisted) mid treatment to remind the nervous system that they’re there. This can also cause a little discomfort. Removal of the needles is usually painless.

How long are the needles left in?

Typically, the needles will be in place for 10-20 minutes.

What should I wear?

The majority of the needles will be inserted close to the site of pain, so loose clothing that allows easy access to the painful area is essential. Needles are often also inserted at points away from the primary area of pain so please wear either shorts or loose legged trousers and be prepared to remove clothing covering the upper body. Females may prefer to wear a vest top.