Medical acupuncture is essentially inserting fine needles through the skin into muscles and ligaments to help relieve pain. It’s an adaptation of traditional Chinese acupuncture, using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The main difference between the two is that medical acupuncture does not involve traditional concepts such as Yin/Yang or circulation of “qi”.

Medical Acupuncture is now used routinely within the NHS for pain relief and works in several ways by stimulating the nervous system. Locally this produces an increase in blood flow bringing nutrients and oxygen to the area. Further afield natural opioids and serotonin are released in the spinal cord, our natural pain killers.

Like any treatment (including medication), acupuncture works for some people, but not others. In the same way paracetamol works really well for some but is of little benefit to other, so acupuncture works well for some but not others, and you cannot know until you give it a try.

What is medical acupuncture used for?

Acupuncture can be used to alleviate the symptoms of:

֍ Tension Type Headaches
֍ Migraines
֍ Chronic Pain
֍ Joint Pain
֍ Postoperative Pain

Does it hurt?

Acupuncture needles are incredibly fine so do not usually cause any pain or soreness. A dull ache or tingling can often be felt, due to the stimulation of the nerves in the area. This can feel unusual at first but it should certainly not feel painful. If you feel any pain at all let your therapist know immediately. You can also experience some side effects immediately after acupuncture such as dizziness, a slight discomfort where the needles were or a slight worsening of symptoms for a short time, but please be reassured these will quickly recede. Occasionally there may also be a small area of bruising.

Who can have medical acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture is safe for the majority of people, however there are some for whom caution is advised. If you suffer from a bleeding disorder, such a haemophilia, or are taking anticoagulants, it is best to talk to your GP first before considering acupuncture. In addition if you have a metal allergy, or have an infection in the area where the needles would be inserted, unfortunately acupuncture is not advised. Although safe when you are pregnant, please do let your practitioner know as acupuncture cannot be used in certain areas safely during pregnancy.

How to get medical acupuncture?

Simply book an osteopathic appointment and advise your practitioner you are interested in medical acupuncture. All acupuncture is performed following an osteopathic assessment.

Your local Farnham based osteopath, here to help you find your health and get that incredible machine that is your body working for you again. Please do get in touch at enquiries@outlinehealth.com, call 01252 850814 or use the book now button below.