Medical acupuncture (dry needling) is a treatment involving the insertion of very fine needles for a therapeutic effect. Qualifying in medical acupuncture in 2014, it has become a very popular treatment method in the clinic showing positive results. We continue to regularly update our training, learning new techniques, including electro acupuncture and broadening our knowledge.

(NB:  Electro acupuncture is used in a similar way to dry needling, except the needles are connected to a device that generates small electrical pulses.)

Studies have shown that medical acupuncture is an effective form of treatment for sporting injuries such as sprains, strains, tendonitis such as Achilles, carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder and neck problems, knee and hip pain and to reduce swelling in muscles. It is also suggested that medical acupuncture can improve athletic performance.

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How Treatment is Administered

The treatment is not painful due to the sterile disposable needles being extremely fine (0.20mm in fact!). The number of needles required will depend upon your injury but will start from 3 or 4.  The length of time the needles are left in place will also vary, but it will not be for long and you will be able to relax while the acupuncture works its magic.

Sporting Injury Classification

Before treatment we will assess your injury, to ascertain whether you have an acute/traumatic injury (which is the result of a single force or accident) or a chronic injury (which develops over a period of time, usually due to overuse).  These two injuries require a different method of treatment.

How Medical Acupuncture Supports Injury Healing

Regardless of the nature of your injury, the acupuncture will increase blood flow to the injured area which will accelerate healing, reduce swelling and scarred tissue and increase mobility.  It also encourages the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkiller) and evokes feelings of wellbeing.

Acupuncture is also used to treat trigger points, where the muscle tissue has become tender and painful and can cause related pain.  Needling relaxes the twitch/spasm response and increases the blood flow to the area.

It is important to remember that medical acupuncture cannot heal you alone, we usually provide it in conjunction with sports massage techniques or other treatments.  The benefits of using other treatments work effectively together to expedite your healing process. Together the treatments create Homeostasis within the body, meaning that the body maintains a healthy balance/equilibrium.  Most patients find that, subsequent to our treatments, they feel extremely calm and relaxed and experience an improved sleep pattern.