Acupuncture & Dry Needling

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture originated approximately 2000 years ago in China and has been a main part of th medical system ever since.

In traditional chinese medicine the concept is that Qi (or energy) should flow through the meridians (channels) of the body. If this energy flows smoothly, none of the acupoints will be blocked and there will be health. Each organ has its own Qi and along with that, specific functions. In addition to a physical function is an emotion or behaviour. Signs and symptoms present as the Qi starts to decline or become weak.

A blockage on these meridians within the musculoskeletal system are likened to trigger points o palpable knots which are sore and can often cause pain or restriction of movement. Needling is needed to re-establish a smooth flow of Qi.

In Western Acupuncture needles are used to reduce pain by stimulating nerves under the skin and in muscles, which can trigger the body to release natural substances like endorphins and oxytocin. These chemicals can help relieve pain and stress, and promote physical and emotional well being.

What is Acupuncture used for?

Acupuncture and dry needling is a practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body.

It is used as a treatment option for

• chronic (long term) pain

• migraines

• joint and muscle pain

• jaw pain

• various health conditions

• general

How many sessions will I need?

An initial acupuncture session can last between 40 minutes to 1 hour and involves an assessment of your general health, medical history and a physical examination, followed by insertion of the acupuncture needles. Every individual will respond differently to treatment, therefore there is no definitive answer as to how many sessions would be beneficial, however, the recommendations suggest if there is no improvement after 6 weeks or 10 sessions then treatment should cease.

Before deciding to have acupunture, it is important to understand the risks and benefits associated with acupuncture and dry needling.

Benefits of Acupuncture

1. Pain Management: One of the most well-known benefits of acupuncture and dry feeling is its ability to provide pain relief. It can be effective in treating conditions acute and chronic such as joint and muscle pain, migraines, osteoarthritis, and menstrual cramps.

2. Reduction of Inflammation: Acupuncture and dry needling have been shown to have anti inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.

3. Stress reduction: Acupuncture is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It can help regulate the body's stress response by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural pain killers and mood enhancers.

4. Improved mental health: Acupuncture has been found to be beneficial for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It can help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain and promote a sense of well being.

   
   

   Risks and side effects of acupuncture and dry needling

Risk	Frequency	Comment
Soreness and bruising	Common	At point of needle insertion with temporary effects.
Drowsiness	Common	Usually passes quickly but can lead to deeper sleep on the same evening
Bleeding and hematoma	Uncommon	May cause bleeding at the insertion site. More likely to occur with a bleeding disorder or blood thinning medications. Easily managed with cotton wool and pressure.
Interaction with medications	Uncommon	May interact with medications such as blood thinners. Please inform of any medication taken.
Infection	Rare	Risk of infection with unsterilized needles. National standards of hygiene, which includes single use, sterile needles and hand sanitization prior to and after needle insertion followed at all times.
Dizziness and fainting	Rare	Dizziness, light headedness or fainting may be experience. Please inform of any previous history.
Nausea and/or vomiting	Rare	If you are feeling unwell inform your therapist immediately.
Seizure	Very Rare	A vasovagal response may be invoked which can cause a reduction in heart rate or blood pressure. Usually, the person has a history of fainting especially when being needled.
Organ Puncture	Very Rare	There have been rare cases of organ puncture with an increase risk when performed by an untrained or inexperienced practitioner. In depth, accredited training which includes safe insertion of needles has been