Our Physiotherapists are accredited with the British Medial Acupuncture Society and sufficiently trained to use Acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture is often used to treat painful musculoskeletal conditions (of the bones and muscles) . We follow strict guidelines to ensure your safety at all times.

Acupuncture is a form of therapy in which fine needles are inserted into specific parts of the body. Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles of the body. This may relieve pain by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing chemicals, and by affecting the part of the brain that governs serotonin, a brain chemical involved with mood. Acupuncture also helps to improve blood flow to the target area.

The needles are inserted into specific places on the body, which is called acupuncture points. The Physiotherapist chooses specific points to place the needles based on your condition Up to 12 points may be used during a session.

The needles may be inserted just under the skin, or deeper so they reach muscle tissue. Once the needles are in place, they may be left in position for a length of time lasting from a few minutes up to around 30 minutes. The frequency and number of treatments differ from person to person. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months may be recommended.

​Acupuncture is generally very safe. Serious side effects are very rarely less than 1 per 10,000.

You need to 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 about 3% of treatments
• Pain during treatment occurs in about 1% of treatments
• Existing symptoms can get worse after treatment (less than 3% of patients). You should tell your physiotherapist about this, but it is usually a good sign
• Fainting can occasionally occur in certain patients, particularly after the first treatment
• Single-use, disposable needles are always used in this clinic