Natural Healing Techniques: Acupuncture

Everyone has heard of acupuncture – but most people who haven’t tried it are sceptical and don’t believe that it does anything of value. This belief is usually rooted in fear and misunderstanding. Before you turn it down, make sure you know what it is, what it involves and how it can help you.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a holistic natural healing method that dates back thousands of years. It’s used for pain alleviation, physical rehabilitation and improved flexibility as well as to soothe injuries, inflammation and nerve pain. It’s also frequently used in conjunction with physiotherapy to achieve more effective results. Research by the World Health Organisation states that acupuncture has proven benefits when used to treat common conditions such as high blood pressure, gastric disturbances and pregnancy-related issues.

What Does It Involve?

In an acupuncture session, our physiotherapists insert very thin needles into one or more areas of the body. It’s a targeted technique based on each patients’ specific requirements so the number of needles and insertions points will vary from one person to the next. Acupuncture focuses on using the nervous system to release chemicals that heal or relieve pain. The tips of the needles cause the targeted nerves to communicate with the muscle, brain and spinal cord to trigger this release. This results in healing through the body’s natural channels. The needles generally remain in the body for about 30 minutes before being removed.

While the thought of needles being inserted into your body may seem scary, even first-time acupuncture patients report minimal pain. However, it’s important to only undergo such treatment at an established and approved place, such as a physiotherapy clinic. Patients usually feel an improvement from the first session; however, persistent ailments usually require additional sessions.

As a top Auckland physio clinic, Cairnhill Physiotherapy has over 45 years of experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. Our physiotherapists are trained in acupuncture and understand that this method may be daunting for first-time patients and will do their best to make your experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. They will explain all you need to know about the process and create a tranquil and reassuring atmosphere for treatment. With every one-on-one session, you’re guaranteed personalised attention and care. Contact us for more information.