Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of single-use, sterilized needles into acupuncture points throughout the body, which are areas of the skin that have less resistance to electricity. Most acupuncture points are found along meridians or channels that are considered to be the pathway for the flow of energy or Qi (pronounced “chee”).
Acupuncture is used to
- Reduce pain
- Decrease inflammation
- Enhance healing
- Improve sleep and relaxation
- Improve mood and energy levels and restore function in the affected areas.
How does it work?
Our health is based on our energy being balanced and able to flow freely in our body along the meridians. Disease and injury can disturb this flow. Acupuncture serves to stimulate the body to repair itself and return to its normal healthy state of function.
Your first treatment:
Our therapists providing Acupuncture at our clinic will discuss a treatment plan with you. Your initial treatment will generally involve only a few needles as each person will react quite differently, and it is not possible to know exactly how you will react. Initially, the needles may be used to decrease pain, swelling and to improve sleep. The needles may be placed at quite a distance from the area of pain.
As treatments progress, needle placement will become more local, and more needles may be used. A dull or mild aching feeling generally occurs when the needle is placed in the tissue. The needles can be left in place for up to 15-30 minutes and can be manipulated to increase or decrease the flow of Qi by lifting or rotating the needles.
Acupuncture may help with the following conditions:
- Neck & Back Pain, Chronic Pelvic Pain
- Headaches/Jaw Pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis/Muscle Strains and Scar Tissue
- Swelling/Edema
Contraindications to Acupuncture:
- It should be avoided during pregnancy.
- If you have a pacemaker, electrical stimulation should not be used in conjunction with it.
- Individuals who are taking blood thinners or hemophiliacs must be cautious with using it as a form of treatment.
- Acupuncture can be used as an additional modality to Physiotherapy by our Acupuncture Physiotherapists at our clinic.