Medical acupuncture
Medical acupuncture is a form of acupuncture that is based on modern orthodox understanding of the human body and the principles of evidence based medicine. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as acupoints, with the aim of stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms. This is normally painless and not unpleasant.
Acupuncture can have quite wide ranging effects. In this clinic we use Medical Acupuncture solely to reduce muscle spasm and to reduce pain…
We use acupuncture to regulate muscle tone and promote muscle relaxation. It does that by activating Golgi tendon organs (GTO). GTOs are sensory receptors located in the tendons near the muscle that monitor changes in tension. When acupuncture needles are inserted into the muscle they can activate the GTO, which sends signals to the brain and spinal cord and causes the release of endorphins, dynorphins and other neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
We use acupuncture to reduce pain. When acupuncture needles are inserted into specific acupoints on the body, they can cause the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.
Acupuncture can also cause activation in the central nervous system and brain to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters and hormones, such as serotonin and cortisol, which can help to regulate pain and inflammation in the body. It may stimulate the autonomic nervous system, which can regulate blood flow and promote healing. Specifically, acupuncture may activate the sympathetic nervous system, which can increase blood flow to the injured area, or the parasympathetic nervous system, which can promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
Acupuncture can sometimes be used to improve blood flow to an injury. It does that by stimulating the release of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help to increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissue, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Medical acupuncture is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has undergone additional training in acupuncture. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy, to manage a range of conditions.