What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is originally from China about 4000 years ago. Acupuncture is a treatment where very thin needles are put into a body. Acupuncture is safe when done by a professional.
Acupuncture is commonly used for treating neck stiffness, migraine, and other muscle problems. Acupuncture is also said to relieve anxiety and stress. Scientifically acupuncture is proven to relieve pain very well.
In Western medicine, during acupuncture, often 5-15 needles are used per session. Sessions last usually about 20-40 minutes.
Acupuncture can be used to treat:
- Neck and shoulder problems
- Back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Migraine
- Headache
- Chronic pain
What to expect?
An acupuncturist will examine a patient and assess their condition, insert one or more thin, sterile needles, and offer advice on self-care or other complementary therapies such as physiotherapy or exercises.
The patient will be asked to lie down on their back, front, or one side, depending on where the needles are to be inserted. An acupuncturist should use single-use, disposable, sterile needles. As each needle is inserted, a patient may feel a very brief stinging or tingling sensation.
After the needle is inserted, there is occasionally a dull ache at the base of the needle that then subsides. Acupuncture is usually relatively painless.
