What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine, originating in China over 3,000 years ago. Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that disease occurs when the body’s natural energies become unbalanced and that this can be corrected by the use of acupuncture.
How does it work?
In Western medicine, research has shown that the stimulation of traditional acupuncture points can indeed produce an effect on the body. Acupuncture also triggers the release of chemicals which act to reduce pain and increase the ‘feel good factor’ (endorphins). Other substances produced during acupuncture may also promote the healing natural process.
Acupuncture at Milligan & Hill
All physiotherapists practising acupuncture at Milligan & Hill are members of the AACP (Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists) and have taken the relevant postgraduate training to achieve membership.
Injuries and conditions
Physiotherapists may combine acupuncture with other treatments. Acupuncture is not offered for all conditions but can help with:
- Muscle and ligament injuries
- Joint pathologies (including back and neck)
- Sports injuries
- Dizziness, nausea and stress
- Headaches
- Pain
Health and safety
All acupuncture treatments at Milligan & Hill are undertaken using single-use, fine, disposable needles and to the highest levels of hygiene. Before treatment, your physiotherapist will carry out a further patient assessment to ensure that acupuncture is suitable for you. During this time, more information is given and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions.
Serious side effects such as bleeding and bruising are rare; less than 1:200,000 treatments.
If you are considering acupuncture, please ensure that you have eaten before treatment and that you do not need to drive or operate dangerous machinery immediately afterwards.