Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine in
which fine needles are inserted into the skin at certain points
on the body.
Acupuncture is the stimulation of special points on the body, usually by the insertion of
fine needles. Originating in the Far East about 2000 years ago, it has made various appearances
in the history of European and north American medicine.
In its original form acupuncture was based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine.
According to these, the workings of the human body are controlled by a vital force or
energy called "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), which circulates between the organs along channels
called meridians. There are 12 main meridians, and these correspond to 12 major functions
or "organs" of the body.
Acupuncture is one of the many skills used within physiotherapy as an integrated approach
to the management of pain, inflammation and as a means of enhancing the body's own healing
chemicals in order to aid recovery and enhance rehabilitation. Acupuncture within physiotherapy
is used within the background of clinical and research evidence.
Treatment with Acupuncture is undertaken with the aim or restoring all the body systems to
a state of balance (homeostasis). This is achieved by an in depth physiotherapy assessment
to determine the source of the imbalance and the correct acupuncture points required
to address this imbalance and facilitate the body's return to a state of health both
physically and mentally.
Acupuncture can be used as part of your physiotherapy treatment, and can usually compliment
your 'hands on' treatment session.