Acupuncture

ThreeSpires Physiotherapy is able to offer Acupuncture at home by a specially trained physiotherapist. We are based in Lichfield and offer acupuncture across surrounding areas such as Sutton Coldfield, Tamworth, Rugeley and Walsall. Acupuncture is the stimulation of special points on the body by the insertion of fine needles.  Here at ThreeSpires Physiotherapy we use acupuncture for the treatment of a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and the relief of pain, it may be used on its own or in conjunction with other modalities such as manual therapy. Your physiotherapist who will be specially trained in acupuncture will be able to discuss whether acupuncture is appropriate in your case.

It is not painful to have done and in fact most patients find it very relaxing and effective at relieving their pain. Acupuncture can be used to assist pain relief in the treament of conditions such as back and neck pain, muscle spasm, headaches and trapped nerves. It is also extremely useful for stress relief and relaxation, again your physiotherapist will be able to discuss this with you after conducting a thorough initial assessment.

Below are some typical questions about acupuncture:

How does it work?

Research demonstrates that acupuncture stimulates the release of various neuro-chemicals such as endorphins which have a natural pain suppressing effect and enable your body to recover more quickly. 

Will it hurt?

This is probably the most common question, as needles are being inserted into the skin. As the needle penetrates the skin patients will feel a slight pin prick sensation and once the needles have been fully inserted patients often report a feeling of warmth or numbing at the are which in traditional Chinese medicine is called Qi.

Will it work for me?

Most people gain pain relief from the use of acupuncture, how much each person benefits depends on the nature of theircondition and their own predisposition to respond to acupuncture. You do not need to be spiritual or believe in the mystical effects of acupuncture for it to be effective. The effects of acupuncture tend to be cumulative and you may need several sessions to see a significant benefit. The longer you have had the problem for and the more chronic it is the more sessions you are likely to need. Occasionally the condition may become slightly worse at first; this is not a bad sign, and usually means that the condition will respond.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is in general very safe. Serious side effects are extremely rare- less than one per 10,000 treatments. Acupuncture is safe when performed by chartered physiotherapists who have had specialist training in acupuncture and use strict hygiene; the acupuncture needles used at ThreeSpiresPhysiotherapy are single use, sterile and disposable.

Does acupuncture have side effects?

You should be aware that:
Drowsiness occurs after treatment in a small number of patients, and, if affected, you are advised not to drive.
Minor bleeding or bruising occurs after acupuncture in a small percentage of treatments.
Symptoms can sometimes get worse after treatment. You should tell your physiotherapist about this, but it is usually a good sign.
Fainting or nausea can occur in certain patients, particularly at the first treatment.
In addition, if there are any particular risks that apply in your case, your physiotherapist will discuss these with you.

If you would like to book an acupuncture session to reduce your pain or are wondering if acupuncture might be an effective treatment for your particular condition then give us a call on 0788 428 1623, email us at enquiries@threespiresphysiotherapy.co.uk or use the contact form.