What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing modality and a main component of traditional oriental medicine. It consists of the insertion of very fine needles into selected acu-points to balance the energy and blood circulation of the body, to enhance and support the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

The pain-relieving effects of acupuncture can be explained by both Chinese medicine (restoring a smooth flow of energy within the meridian channels system of body) and in Western medicine science (promoting the release of local and systemic natural painkillers as well as anti-inflammatory chemicals).

Needling

Acupuncture needling is a process that uses tiny acupuncture needles inserted into “Acu-points and Myofascial trigger points” found in the muscles; this may release endorphins, the body’s natural pain killing chemicals, loosening muscles and often providing almost instant relief from tension and pain.

The needling stimulates neural pathways, which blocks pain by disrupting pain messages being sent to the central nervous system. The treatment may last 45 minutes to an hour with needles being retained for 15 to 20 minutes or so. This treatment is a useful add-on to massage or as a stand-alone treatment to provide quick relief from muscle pain and soreness and to help muscles relax.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is a very safe treatment. Only individually packaged, single use, sterile needles are used.

Does it hurt?

Generally, needle insertion is not felt! But, in some cases, a variety of feelings like tingling, twitching, ache, numbness and electrical sensations can be experienced. Adverse effects are very rare.

Acupuncture can be used for a great number of issues from;

Musculoskeletal pain Depression Stress and anxiety Migraines Sports injuries Complex and chronic pain Digestive disorders Women’s health, including (in)fertility and pregnancy Weight loss Neurological conditions

Acupuncture is helpful in maintaining good health and in treating people with a wide range of health concerns. In recent years, acupuncture has become much more popular in Western countries and is established as Western medical treatment.

Jarod Hanoch Oh Silverdale Acupuncture