Medical acupuncture is a contemporary therapeutic method based on the principles of neurology, physiology, and anatomy. It involves the insertion of sterile needles into different points in the body, much like traditional Chinese acupuncture. These needles have many health benefits such as inducing muscle relaxation, reducing pain, and modifying neuroendocrine responses. Medical acupuncture has been shown to produce positive outcomes, promoting relaxation and a sense of wellness. At our Premier Care Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists have undergone medical acupuncture training through McMaster University and the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute and are skilled to perform and treat patients opting in for this method.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that has gained popularity worldwide as a complementary or alternative therapy for various health conditions. Its philosophy is grounded in the idea that the body’s energy, or qi, flows along meridians or pathways, and disruptions or blockages in this flow can lead to physical, emotional, or mental imbalances. During an acupuncture session, a practitioner inserts fine needles into specific points on the body, typically where the meridians intersect, with the goal of restoring balance and promoting healing. These needles are typically left in place for a few minutes, and the practitioner may manipulate them with their hands or apply heat or mild electrical stimulation to enhance the effects.
Acupuncture Helps Lower Back Pain
A study examining non-pharmacological approaches for treating lower back pain demonstrated that acupuncture resulted in reduced pain intensity and improved back function immediately following treatment.
Acupuncture Can Relieve Headaches
Acupuncture is able to reduce the frequency of migraine symptoms and can be as effective as preventive migraine medications. For individuals suffering from tension headaches, receiving multiple acupuncture sessions may be beneficial, according to research. Even if you take pain medication, combining acupuncture with it is effective in reducing headache frequency.
Acupuncture And Your Knees
Because of its ability to decrease pain, acupuncture can improve aid in knee conditions and help with physical function of the knee. Individuals with knee osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by the breakdown of knee connective tissue can highly benefit from this treatment. Acupuncture is able to delay and reduce pain medication use in individuals who have undergone knee replacement surgery.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture could trigger the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. Endorphins are known to block pain signals and induce feelings of well-being, and their release could explain why some individuals experience pain relief after an acupuncture session. Acupuncture may affect the autonomic nervous system, which controls various involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Needle placement in specific acupuncture points may influence the activity of the sympathetic or parasympathetic nervous systems, leading to changes in these functions. For example, acupuncture has been shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure in some individuals, suggesting a potential role in stress reduction and relaxation.
Some have proposed that acupuncture’s effects may be related to its ability to modulate the immune system, improve circulation, and stimulate tissue repair. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind acupuncture’s potential benefits, individuals benefit greatly from this therapy and it could be the simple healthy answer to many of your health goals.
At Premier Care Physiotherapy, our primary aim is to assist you in recovering your full physical fitness and resuming a fulfilling and active lifestyle. We are a physiotherapist-owned and operated clinic located in Richmond Hill, dedicated to providing comprehensive physiotherapy and rehabilitation services. Our team of experienced professionals, Ali and Mary, are committed to delivering high-quality care and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. To schedule an appointment with us, please give us a call at (905) 237-7174. We look forward to helping you on your journey to improved health and wellness!