What if you were told there was a viable healing technique that could successfully treat a myriad of health conditions. Anything from musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, stress, headaches and even allergies. And that this alternative treatment was completely natural – no drugs involved. Also, there were few to no side effects. Who wouldn’t throw aside the pain killers and say sign me up?
Welcome to one of the oldest healing practices in the world: acupuncture.
When old meets new: the role of ancient medicine in modern health care
Acupuncture has provided relief to countless people around the world for many centuries. And while it’s an ancient medical technique, modern research tells us it’s an effective treatment, especially for pain.
But if you’re the type of person who shudders at the sight of needles, you might need some more convincing.
First things first, what is acupuncture?
Acupuncture, a one-stop shop for pain relief
Yes, acupuncture involves poking needles into the skin. But they are very fine needles (so they do not hurt) that are inserted into specific areas of the body. Traditionally it is believed that targeting specific acupuncture points clears any energy blockages and stimulates the body’s ability to naturally heal itself.
Needle-phobic people have described the sensation as numbness, tingling or mild discomfort. Others don’t even notice the needles are there. Some even fall asleep!
Why do physiotherapists use acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one tool in a physiotherapist’s arsenal to treat chronic conditions, musculoskeletal injuries and manage pain.
The process of acupuncture relaxes muscles, making it an ideal therapy for people experiencing pain following physical activity, for example, or neck or back pain.
With more of us working from home in this era of Covid-19, it’s not surprising to learn the Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA) report acupuncture treatment has surged in popularity over the past year among people seeking natural treatment for work-related issues.
So does it work?
Science tells us it does. So too do any number of evidence reports by medical professionals that conclude acupuncture provides relief to people suffering from a number of ailments – from musculoskeletal pain to hay fever, arthritis, depression and so much more.
And while it’s worthwhile for many, acupuncture isn’t for everyone. Your physiotherapist can guide you on the most suitable treatment for your condition.
What do you have to lose?
The New Age Physiotherapy staff are trained to provide acupuncture and dry needling treatment at our south west Sydney physiotherapy clinic. We follow strict hygiene practices and only use pre-sterilised, single –use, disposable needles.
Book an appointment to discuss how acupuncture and other physiotherapy techniques can help you on your road to recovery from pain or injury.