Medical Acupuncture

What is it?

It is based on current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Current research is supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture.
It is used to treat musculoskeletal pain and stimulate the healing mechanism of the body to assist the body deal with injuries and dysfunctions.
It also stimulates the release of natural pain killers produced naturally by the body and contribute to pain relief
The process involves the insertion of an acupuncture needle, which is sterile and is placed in specific areas of the body to treat specific dysfunctions.
In other instances, the acupuncture needle is placed in a trigger point and the process is then described as dry needling. A trigger point is basically known as a muscle knot that creates pain in other areas of the body.

It is taught to GPs, nurses, chiropractors, osteopaths, physiotherapists and dentists.
Members of the British Medical Acupuncture Society are regulated healthcare professionals who practice acupuncture within the scope of their professional practice and have received a good training.

If you have haemophilia
If you are pregnant or trying to conceive
If you suffer from epilepsy
If you have a deficient/ weakened immune system
If you have a pacemaker
If you are taking anticoagulant (blood thinning medication)
If you are diabetic

NB: These conditions do not exclude you from having acupuncture but they will influence its application.

Does acupuncture work?

Yes, but it does not work for all. Success can depend on a number of factors, which include:

What does acupuncture involve?

Treatment will consist of the insertion of fine needles.
These are pre-sterilised and disposable ensuring strict hygiene practice.
The needle insertion will feel like a mild pinprick.
Once needles are placed you may feel a mild ache, a deep ache, numbness, warm or heavy sensation at and around the needle. This may feel strange but not unpleasant. It is a sign that the body’s inbuilt pain relieving mechanisms are being stimulated.
The needles may be gently stimulated until you experience such sensations. This may be repeated again throughout the treatment.
Most commonly a treatment will involve the insertion of between 2 to 16 needles.
Needles can be in place between 10 to 30 minutes.
It is advisable to eat before having acupuncture, and not to attend if you are suffering from severe cold or flu.

Is acupuncture safe?

Registered osteopaths are fully trained in the management of a wide range of conditions.
Registered osteopaths who provide acupuncture and are members of the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS) are required to train to a minimum standard and are also bound by professional codes of conduct through the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
Acupuncture is safer than many of the drug treatments used. However, any procedure that involves inserting needles into the body has some potential problems, but these remain minimal.
Acupuncture has been known to produce some “side effects” in certain people.

Minor side effects

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