Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a centuries-old system of healing involving the insertion of fine needles at selected points on the body. Traditionally associated with Chinese Medicine and the philosophies of Taoism, there is growing clinical evidence to support treatment effects using knowledge from anatomy, physiology and neurology.
Acupuncture promotes micro-circulation in the skin and muscles; neural signals dilate the blood vessels to supply fresh nutrients for tissue repair. It disrupts the transmission of pain at the level of the spinal cord and stimulates the brain to release, amongst other things endorphins, serotonin and oxytocin: the body's own natural painkillers and happy chemicals.
Western musings on the nature of Qi draw parallels between yin/yang and homeostasis; between Qi and energy production in the mitochondria. Others find commonality with energy and matter at the quantum level. While rationale and diagnostics of the two systems are distinct, treatment intentions are the same: to address painful conditions and those affecting the internal environment.
Osteopathy and acupuncture complement one another other by addressing musculoskeletal pain as well as a range of functional complaints.
Chronic pain and mental health
Acupuncture modulates our emotional response to pain, explaining its benefit in managing the affective components of chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It’s sedating effects are useful in the treatment of anxiety and mental health conditions. Many patients report improvements in sleep and an increased sense of wellbeing after treatment.
Visceral function
Internal dysfunctions show predictable patterns of pain referral on the body. Acupuncture takes advantage of shared neural pathways between the organs and the musculoskeletal system, stimulating reflex arcs that dampen aberrant information; it opens the blood vessels, enhancing organ nourishment and calming the smooth muscle spasms typical of such things as digestive complaints and period pain.
Nausea & vomiting
The effects of acupuncture are well established for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy as well as postoperatively and during chemotherapy treatment.
Endocrine effects
Acupuncture may also influence the secretion of reproductive hormones, normalise the menstrual cycle and provide symptomatic relief for menopausal hot flushes. It is used widely to support reproductive health.
