Medical Acupuncture

What is medical acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and pain relief. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is rooted in ancient Chinese medicine and based on the concept of balancing the body's energy (Qi), medical acupuncture is practiced by healthcare professionals such as doctors, physiotherapists, and chiropractors, and is often integrated with conventional medical treatments.

Scientific Basis:

Medical acupuncture is grounded in modern biomedical principles and research. It focuses on the physiological and neurological effects of needle insertion. It aims to stimulate the nervous system, increase blood flow, and trigger the release of natural painkillers (endorphins) and anti-inflammatory substances.

Techniques:

Avin uses thin, sterile needles inserted at specific anatomical points, often referred to as acupuncture points or trigger points. The needles are typically left in place for 10-30 minutes, and the treatment may involve gentle manipulation of the needles.

Conditions Treated:

Medical acupuncture is commonly used for pain management, including chronic pain conditions such as back pain, arthritis, and migraines. It can also be effective for treating conditions like anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive issues, and certain neurological disorders.

Practitioners:

Only licensed healthcare professionals like Avin Patel with specialsed training in medical acupuncture should perform this treatment. These practitioners use their medical knowledge to integrate acupuncture with other treatments and to ensure it is safe and appropriate for each patient. Avin has spent over 13 years as a medical acupuncturist after completing his acupuncture training with British Medical Acupuncture Society. Avin practices acupuncture in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Efficacy and Safety:

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of medical acupuncture for various conditions, particularly in pain management. When performed by trained professionals such as Avin Patel, medical acupuncture is considered safe with minimal risk of side effects.

Integration with Conventional Medicine:

Medical acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing the need for medications.

It is tailored to the individual patient's medical history and current health condition.

Benefits of Medical Acupuncture:

Pain Relief: Helps reduce acute and chronic pain. Reduced Inflammation: Can decrease inflammation and promote healing. Stress Reduction: Encourages relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety. Improved Sleep: Can enhance sleep quality and reduce insomnia. Overall Wellness: Promotes a sense of well-being and can improve overall health.

Medical acupuncture is a valuable treatment option that merges traditional acupuncture techniques with modern medical understanding. It provides a holistic approach to healthcare by addressing various physical and emotional conditions, improving patients' quality of life, and often complementing other medical treatments effectively.

What sort of problems can acupuncture be used for?
Three quarters of all people will get some benefit from medical acupuncture treatment. They may lose their pain completely, or they may find it is much improved. Unfortunately, about a quarter of patients do not seem to respond to acupuncture, and we can never guarantee results
Is acupuncture safe?
Provided you are under the care of a medical doctor, acupuncture does seem to be a very safe treatment. Some patients may experience bruising, may feel faint, or may feel very tired following treatment. However, acupuncture has less side effects than many drug treatments and most people experience no problems at all.
Do the needles hurt?
Many people are worried about this, but acupuncture is usually almost painless. The needles are very thin, and most patients are surprised at how little they can feel. It is normal to feel a slight prick as the needle is inserted. After that you may feel a warm, heavy sensation around the needle – this is usually quite pleasant.
What exactly will happen when I come for acupuncture?
The doctor will find out more about your pain by asking questions and by examining you. You can discuss the treatment, and if you decide to try it, a few small needles will be inserted and left in place for a few minutes. The needles will usually be inserted around the area where you feel pain, but some needles may also be placed in your hands or feet. Some doctors place small needles in the ear. Sometimes the doctor will twiddle the needles. Occasionally, your doctor may advise you to have electro-acupuncture, where a small and painless electric current is passed across the needles. Very occasionally your doctor may use Moxa treatment – where herbs are burned to warm the needles.
How many treatments will I need, and how often?
You may find you feel very relaxed and sleep better following your first treatment. However, it may take several treatments before you notice much real improvement. Treatments are normally given at weekly intervals, although your doctor may advise more or less time between treatments. If you have not noticed any recovery after 3 treatments your doctor may feel that you are unlikely to respond and may advise you to stop your acupuncture treatment. Most people need between 3 to 8 treatments, and some people need to return for regular “top up” treatments every few months.
How does acupuncture actually work?
We now have a much better understanding of how acupuncture works, although there are many things we still don’t understand. More research is needed. We know that acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain killing chemicals within your body. These are released in several areas of your body – around the needles, in your spinal cord where the nerves run, and in your brain. Acupuncture also causes the release of other natural substances in your body which promote healing and aid recovery.
It's my first acupuncture treatment what should I wear?
Choosing what to wear for your first acupuncture session can be a bit tricky. We suggest wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to areas where needles may be placed.
How will I feel after I have had acupuncture?
After a medical acupuncture session, people commonly experience a range of feelings, which can vary depending on the individual. Here are some typical responses: Relaxation: Many people feel deeply relaxed after a session, almost like a sense of calm or tranquility. This relaxation can last for several hours or even into the next day. Energised: Some individuals may feel a boost in energy, as if their body has been recharged. Mood Improvement: Many people report feeling a sense of well-being or an uplift in their mood after acupuncture. Relief of Symptoms: Depending on what the acupuncture was addressing, you might notice an immediate improvement in symptoms like pain or discomfort. Overall, the experience after acupuncture is typically positive, and any side effects are usually mild and temporary.
What type of needles are used when having medical acupuncture?
Medical acupuncture uses very fine, sterile needles specifically designed for the procedure. Here’s a bit more detail about them: Material: The needles are typically made from stainless steel, which is durable, resistant to corrosion, and safe for medical use. Size: Acupuncture needles are very thin, much thinner than needles used for injections or drawing blood. They usually range from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm in diameter. The length of the needle can vary depending on the area being treated, generally ranging from 13 mm to 75 mm. Sterility: Each needle is pre-packaged, individually wrapped, and sterilised. They are used once and then disposed of, ensuring that there is no risk of cross-contamination. Design: The tip of the needle is usually rounded and smooth, which allows it to penetrate the skin with minimal discomfort. The body of the needle is flexible, which helps the practitioner to manipulate it gently once it’s in place. Variety: There are different types of needles for various techniques in acupuncture, such as thicker needles for stimulating certain points more intensely or longer needles for reaching deeper tissues. These needles are designed to be as comfortable as possible for the patient, often resulting in little to no pain upon insertion.

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