Western medical acupuncture 

'What is Western Medical Acupuncture?'
 
Western medical acupuncture is a therapeutic modality involving the insertion of fine needles; it is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and the principles of evidence based medicine. Western medical acupuncture is principally used by conventional healthcare practitioners, most commonly in primary care, and it is regarded as part of conventional medicine. Acupuncture stimulates the nerves in skin, muscle and other tissues, and can produce a variety of effects. It increases the release of the body’s natural painkillers, including endorphin and serotonin, in the pathways of both the spinal cord and the brain. This modifies the way pain signals are received by the brain. It is mainly used to treat musculoskeletal pain, including myofascial trigger point pain. It is also effective for postoperative pain and nausea.
 
'Who can benefit from Western Medical Acupuncture?'
 
Acupuncture is effective in a wide range of painful conditions we use it frequently to treat musculoskeletal pain for example in the back, neck, shoulder and leg. It can be used successfully in the treatment of headache, migraine, ‘trapped nerves’, chronic muscle strain, sports injuries and various kinds of rheumatic and arthritic pain. The Hospital offers acupuncture treatment on an individual basis, with a course of treatment usually consisting of 6-8 sessions.

What happens at my first appointment?

You will be seen individually and assessed by a doctor trained in Western Medical acupuncture using Western Medical diagnosis as well as questions about your medical history and lifestyle.

• Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used.
• Treatments will usually be given once a week for 6 weeks.

Is there anything your practitioner needs to know?

• If you have ever experienced a fit, faint or funny turn
• If you have a pacemaker or any other electrical implants
• If you have a bleeding disorder
• If you are taking anti-coagulants (such as warfarin) or any other medication
• If you have damaged heart valves or have any other particular risk of infection

Is the treatment painful?

The needles are very fine. Unlike other needles, such as those used for blood tests and injections, they do not have a cutting edge. Some patients feel a little sharpness during needle insertion, while others feel nothing at all.

Are there any side effects?

• A few patients feel tired after treatment - you are advised not to drive after your first appointment
• Fainting occurs rarely in some patients
• Minor bruising or bleeding can occasionally occur after acupuncture