Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine which involves the use of fine needles inserted into certain points throughout the body. It is based on the Chinese belief that our body is filled with energy called Qi, which flows along certain channels called meridians. When this Qi is disturbed it presents as pain within our body or makes us unwell. Acupuncture is used to restore this energy making it flow smoothly again.
 

Modern studies have revealed that acupuncture can raise the level of specific hormones, prostaglandin, T-cell counts, gamma globulin, opsonins and overall anti-body levels.
 

The insertion of fine needles into specific points along the body's energy pathways is thought to stimulate the human body's natural healing response, release pain-killing endorphins and improve functioning of the hormonal system

Research has shown that the majority of people gain pain relief from acupuncture.
 

Chartered Physiotherapists train to use acupuncture at a post graduate level which gives them the ability to combine acupuncture with other physiotherapy techniques such as manipulation, exercise and relaxation techniques.
 

Acupuncture is useful for all types of pain whether it is muscular, skeletal or neural in nature. It can be used in acute and chronic injuries, arthritis and rheumatism, back and neck pain, headaches and sports injuries.
 

Your physiotherapist will assess whether acupuncture is appropriate at your initial assessment and discuss this treatment method with you more fully at that time.