Recent studies have reported that between one-third and one-half of the UK population (just under 28 million adults) are affected by chronic pain. Chronic pain in its numerous forms has become a silent epidemic, with more people than ever struggling to deal with this hidden disability.
At Essex Physiotherapy, we’ve helped patients of all ages to find sustainable pain relief solutions. But can acupuncture help to relieve pain on a long-term basis, and how does it work? This blog will take you through everything you need to know.
Acupuncture is derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and involves the insertion of hair-thin needs into certain “acupoints” across the body. A key teaching of TCM is that the body has a flow of life energy called Qi (chee), and by manipulating the body’s acupoints, practitioners are able to release the flow of Qi. It’s believed that when Qi gets blocked, people develop illnesses and ailments. Activating the acupoints helps to restore the flow and improve one’s overall health.
There are more than 2,000 acupoints on the body, and it’s thought that the targeting of specific points may relieve pain through the release of endorphins – the body’s natural pain killer – and stimulating parts of the brain that release serotonin. As a result, acupuncture is thought to relieve pain and discomfort caused by a range of ailments, including:
● Physical pain from any source
● Muscle and joint problems
● Back and neck pain
● Arthritis
● Rheumatism
● Sports injuries
● Women’s health problems
● Stress-related difficulties
● Tension headaches and migraines
The number of acupuncture sessions required in order to relieve pain depends entirely on the patient and the severity of their case. Whilst some patients will experience immediate pain relief during their first session, others with chronic pain might need a series of sessions before noticing a difference. In order for acupuncture to be effective and have a long-lasting impact, we always recommend that patients try and remain consistent with their sessions to ensure the effects are felt fully.
At your first session, your practitioner will perform an initial consultation in which they will find out about your overall health and lifestyle, along with the type of pain you are experiencing and any specific concerns you may have. They will then be able to devise an acupuncture regime that will target specific acupoints over a set period of time.
An acupuncture session can last anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour. Once the needles have been inserted into the acupoints, you will be left to rest and relax while the needles work to restore the flow of Qi and release any blockages.
After your session, you might experience some slight bruising or bleeding, but patients often say that they feel relaxed, rejuvenated and notice a reduction in pain. We always recommend that after any session, patients dehydrate themselves and take it easy for the rest of the day to allow the healing benefits to take effect.
Essex Physiotherapy are a reputed practitioner of acupuncture and can help to relieve physical pain of many origins. For more information about our acupuncture services or to book an appointment, please get in touch.
