Western Medical Acupuncture

Most people have an idea about what acupuncture involves i.e. needles! - The type of acupuncture that I use at Essential Chiropractic is called Western Medical Acupuncture. This type of acupuncture is a reinterpretation of traditional Chinese acupuncture because it is based on a scientific viewpoint but this is not to suggest that it is superior to the traditional approach, it is just a different way of thinking [methodology].

The needles in question are really delicate, single use, sterile needles that are much finer than hollow ones used for injections or to take blood. If you really don't like the idea of acupuncture then I most certainly won't be persuading you to include it as part of your chiropractic care. The main treatment offered in this clinic is chiropractic but there may be conditions that could benefit from the additional use of acupuncture.

So, what would those conditions be?

Acupuncture has been found to be effective for a wide range of painful conditions and is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal pain like back, shoulder, neck and leg pain. It can be helpful for headaches, migraine, trapped nerves and other chronic [long term] muscle strains and some rheumatic and arthritic pain. It can also help to get rid of the 'knots' in your muscles that are called myofascial trigger points.

How does it work?

It works on many levels. When the needle is inserted it stimulates the nerves in the skin and the underlying muscles. Various substances get released in the area around the needles and this causes more blood to come to the area, which encourages tissue healing.

It is also known to increase the release of the body's natural painkillers: adenosine, endorphin and serotonin, and the release of these substances in the spinal cord and brain modifies the way that pain signals are generated, so you can feel more comfortable. The needles are left in position briefly and on occasion they may be twiddled. The number of needles varies but it is usually no more than 5 for each area of discomfort.

Visit www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk now to find out more about Western Medical Acupuncture.