Anna Willans is an AACP registered Physiotherapist delivering safe, effective and evidence based acupuncture treatment.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into various parts of the body to stimulate or relax the body. There are different types of acupuncture:
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which can be traced back as far as 1000BC and is based on Qi or energy flow.
Western acupuncture which is based on the release of chemicals in the nervous system, some of which are pain relieving and healing. It also involves specific relaxation of muscles (trigger point acupuncture).
Western acupuncture can be used to improve pain, function, healing, inflammation and muscle spasm.
Acupuncture is generally very safe. Serious side effects are very rare (less that 1 per 10,000 treatments).
You need to be aware that:
• Existing symptoms can occasionally worsen following treatment
• Drowsiness may occur after treatment
• Minor bleeding or bruising may occur following acupuncture
What are the potential risks and side effects?
Medical Considerations
Some medical conditions can affect Acupuncture. Please tell Anna if you have any of the following:
• Skin infection
• Allergy to metal
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Pacemaker or electrical implants
• Anti-coagulant medication
• Epilepsy
• Fear of needles
• Any condition that makes it difficult for you to keep still
I'd like to find out more about this treatment, what can I do?