Treatments...

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the technique of inserting fine needles into specific points in the body with the aim of relieving pain and for other therapeutic purposes.

How does it work?

• Acupuncture has its origins in traditional Chinese medicine, and is based on the idea that acupuncture treatments help regulate the flow of energy, or ‘Qi’ (pronounced “Chee”), through the body.

• More recent research suggests that acupuncture may prompt biological responses in the human body which increases blood flow in the event of injury and aids the reparative functions of fibroblasts (the body’s building cells).  This is thought to aid healing by assisting in the repair of soft tissue injuries and help relieve pain.

What is it used to treat?

• At Alpha Physiotherapy, we would normally offer acupuncture only as a secondary treatment along with more traditional physiotherapy techniques, such as massage, manipulation or mobilisation. 

• It is most often used to treat conditions requiring an analgesic effect – pain relief, especially in relation to spine and nerve-related pain.