Acupuncture is one of the oldest and long-standing health care systems in the world. It involves the placement of very fine needles into precise points on the body to influence your health.
Acupuncture is part of a greater system of medicine known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). As TCM is a diverse system of medicine and covers all major systems within the body, acupuncture can be used for a wide range of acute and chronic ailments. TCM is focused on treating the underlying cause of disease, as well as the presenting symptoms. This involves a holistic approach linking the body, mind and emotions in both the cause of disease and its treatment. Acupuncture may also be used to optimise overall wellness. The treatment is usually painless and relaxing.
How does acupuncture work?
Researchers have identified that stimulating an acupuncture point can create measurable changes in the body. Acupuncture points have an influence over the area that surrounds them. An acupuncture point can also have an influence over areas far removed from the actual point being needled. This has been observed through imaging techniques which show activity in the brain. Some acupuncture points are also known to have an influence on hormones.
It is modern research techniques that are now beginning to explain how acupuncture works, from a scientific point of view. Traditionally, acupuncture is explained by influencing the flow of Qi (energy or life force) within the body. For example, someone with throbbing headaches has too much Qi moving upwards, or someone with pain that is worse for rest has Qi that is 'stuck' or not circulating well. Acupuncture aims to correct these imbalances. By matching these imbalances to the body area or organ system experiencing the main complaint, a specific acupuncture point formula can be devised to restore balance and correct the problem.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised many of the following conditions. Acupuncture treatment is not limited to these conditions.
- Neurogenic conditions including headaches, migraines, toothaches, facial and inter-costal neuralgia (pain), trigeminal neuralgia (pain), peripheral neuropathy, Meniere's disease, and insomnia.
- High blood pressure and low blood pressure.
- Respiratory conditions including sore throats, colds and flus, rhinitis, and sinusitis.
- Digestive conditions including gastro-oesophageal reflux, bloating, flatulence, constipation, diarrhoea, IBS, IBD, gingivitis, hiccups, gastritis, ulcers, gastric hyperacidity, paralytic ileus, and colitis.
- Urogenital conditions including urinary tract infections, excessive urination, painful urination, and incontinence.
- Gynaecological and obstetric conditions including menstrual disorders (such as period pain) endometriosis, pre-conception care, IVF support and pregnancy care and post-natal support.
- Skin conditions including acne, eczema and psoriasis.
- Eye conditions including conjunctivitis.
- Musculoskeletal conditions including neck and shoulder pain, tension headaches, lower back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, frozen shoulder, and tennis elbow.
- Sporting injuries including muscle tears and cartilage damage.
- Stress and insomnia.
This list is not exhaustive - if you have a condition that isn't mentioned above, please contact us or call 0404 755 212 to find out how we can help.
