Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture was first introduced to the West in the 1950’s and originated in China over 5000 years ago. Traditional acupuncture uses Meridian lines and points along these which represent the organs of the body. Meridians are channels through which Qi and blood flows. Imbalances and blockages can result in pain and illness. Western acupuncture incorporates Traditional acupuncture in the treatment of many conditions to facilitate/ speed up the healing and to produce analgesic (pain relief) effect during treatment thereby enhancing treatment results.
How does Acupuncture work?
Penetration of muscle with an acupuncture needle stimulates sensory nerve fibres. These fibres exist in abundance not only in the muscle, but skin, blood vessels, connective tissue and bone. Following stimulation of these fibres, stimuli reach the spinal cord, from there opioids (pain-relieving substances) dampen pain signals to the brain. This process is known as the ‘Pain Gate Theory’. (Melzack and Wall, 1965) and since been validated by other authors.
What is dry needling and trigger points?
A trigger point has been defined as a hyperirritable spot in the muscle. (Travell and Simons). Myofascial trigger points are seen in both acute and chronic conditions. The shortened muscles irritate and increases joint pressure and upsets joint alignment. The shortened muscle band can be instantaneously relaxed by dry needling these points.
Is Acupuncture safe?
The physiotherapist will assess you for other pre-existing conditions. We use sterile single-use needles as a preventative measure.
Can Acupuncture/ Dry needling help me?
Acupuncture/ Dry needling can be used in various conditions such as muscle injuries, neck pain, headaches, back pain, osteoarthritis, shoulder, wrist, elbow, knee and ankle and tendon pain. Acupuncture is used as an adjunct to other physiotherapy treatment techniques to speed up recovery and to treat longstanding problems. Contact us at MGS Physio to find out more about acupuncture and treatment.