What is Medical Acupuncture?

Acupuncture like techniques have been used for over 5000 years. A comprehensive system was developed in the Far East and this was first introduced into Europe in the 17th century. In the past thirty years, because of the huge public interest in the subject, considerable scientific research on acupuncture has been carried out-although much remains to be done. We now know much more about how acupuncture works and some of the myths can be laid to rest.

As we learn more about it, the possibilities of using acupuncture alongside orthodox medicines increase. It is already available in most hospital pain clinics and it is provided by an ever increasing number of General Practitioners and hospital doctors.

It is only recently that The British Medical Acupuncture Society has opened its training courses originally designed for doctors to include registered health professionals such as Osteopaths. Members are subject to a code of practice all members are registered medical practitioners with experience in medicine and have undergone a recognised acupuncture course.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment that can relieve symptoms of some physical and psychological conditions and may encourage the patient’s body to heal and repair itself. Acupuncture stimulates the nerves in skin and muscle, and can produce a variety of effects. We know that it increases the body’s release of natural painkillers-endorphin and serotonin-in pain pathways of both the spinal cord and the brain. This modifies the way pain signals are received.

But acupuncture does much more than reduce pain, and has a beneficial effect on health. Patients often notice an improved sense of well being after treatment.

Modern research shows that acupuncture can affect most of the body’s systems – the nervous system, muscle tone, hormone outputs, circulation, antibody production and allergic responses, as well as the respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Each patient’s case will be assessed by the practitioner / Osteopath and treatment will be tailored to the individual.

How much treatment will you need?

Treatment might be once a week to begin with, then at longer intervals as the condition responds. A typical course of treatment lasts 5 to 8 sessions.

What sort of conditions respond to Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is effective in a wide range of painful conditions and is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal pain, for example; back, shoulder, neck and joint pain. Headaches, Migraines, Trapped nerves, Chronic muscle strains, Sports injuries, Rheumatic and arthritic pain.

Andrea also offers Acupuncture to support individuals undergoing IVF or hormonal therapy.

This is not a complete list and many other conditions have been treated with acupuncture.

To find out more contact the clinic on 01932 888 663 or Andrea Lecky on 07792 868 935.