Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment that we offer as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy plan. It is based on Western medical principles and involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. This is a very different approach from traditional Chinese acupuncture; it's a modern, evidence-based technique focused on treating pain and dysfunction.

When we use acupuncture, we are looking to stimulate the nerves under your skin and in your muscles. This stimulation triggers your body to produce its own natural painkillers, such as endorphins, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Acupuncture is not used as a standalone treatment. Instead, we use it as a powerful tool to complement other physiotherapy techniques, such as exercise therapy and manual treatment. By reducing your pain and muscle tightness with acupuncture, we can help you move more freely and get the most out of your rehabilitation program.

Common Musculoskeletal Conditions Acupuncture Might Be Useful For

Acupuncture has been shown to be a useful treatment for a variety of conditions, particularly those involving chronic pain and muscle tension. According to guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), acupuncture can be considered as a treatment option for:

• Tension-Type Headaches: Acupuncture can be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of chronic tension headaches.

• Migraines: It may also be useful for the prevention of migraines.

• Chronic Primary Pain: Conditions where pain persists for an extended period, such as back pain, neck pain, and fibromyalgia.

• Osteoarthritis of the Knee: It can be used to help with pain management in individuals with chronic knee osteoarthritis.

• Shoulder Pain: Including conditions like rotator cuff issues and frozen shoulder.