What is Western Medical Acupuncture?
Western medical acupuncture and “Dry needling” are modern takes on an ancient concept that originated in traditional Chinese medicine. Needles are inserted into the skin and either left or manipulated, with the goal of having a therapeutic effect.
Acupuncture works by stimulating sensory nerves, the same ones used by sensations like touch, pressure, stretch, and even pain. It is increasingly popular and widely used across the NHS as one of the most popular complementary therapies.
An increasing evidence base shows the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating conditions such as neck and back pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
The needles used in acupuncture and dry needling are extremely fine, much finer than those that are used to have your blood drawn, for example.
Depending on the insertion site dry needling is mostly painless. You may feel a slight sharp, tingling or pulling sensation around where the needle is inserted.
Dry needling is usually very well tolerated as long as you are not phobic of needles!
is it safe?
Acupuncture and dry needling are both very widely used and well studied. There is overwhelming evidence to support that Acupuncture and dry needling are safe when performed by trained professionals.
Mild after-effects are reported, such as bleeding, drowsiness, or faintness.
The needles used are sterile and single-use only, meaning there is a very low risk of infection.
How many treatments will I need?
Acupuncture and Dry needling treatments have a cumulative effect, meaning the more treatments you have pain relief lasts longer and is more effective.
It is recommended to have treatments 3-5 days apart to begin with to get the most out of the treatment dosage.
Depending on the onset (recent or chronic), location (one or more areas) and chronicity, patients can expect a course of 6 to 8 treatments with sessions decreasing in frequency as symptoms improve. If you suffer from a chronic condition such as osteoarthritis, treatment will most likely need to be continued with ‘top ups’ at increasing intervals, initially monthly, then less frequently.
how to book
Medical Acupuncture and Dry needling are included as part of a standard chiropractic treatment. Follow the link at the top of our page to book online.
Have questions?
Feel free to contact Claire directly via our contact form. Alternatively, you can book a £15 consultation to have a physical examination and treatment recommendations.
£15 chiropractic consultations
This £15 chiropractic consultation includes a review of your musculoskeletal symptoms, medical history, and a physical assessment. Claire will provide her impressions regarding your condition, as well as a likely diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
This assessment is designed for individuals who are curious about chiropractic care but are not yet ready to receive treatment. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights about your condition as it is explained to you by an expert.