Leeds Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine stainless steel needles into the skin. It has been used in China for over 2,000 years and increasingly in Western medicine since the 1970s.

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Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of common health problems, injuries and to reduce pain. 

At 3RPhysio we combine acupuncture with other physiotherapy treatments such as exercise, shockwave and soft tissue mobilisation. 

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How does acupuncture work?

Where the needle is placed initiates a healing response in the tissue.  This leads to the release of pain relieving chemicals called endorphins.  Acupuncture also sends signals via different nerves to the areas in you brain that represents the injured body area. Flooding the brain area with different signals which reduces your perception of your pain. 

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Can anyone have acupuncture?

There are certain health conditions that may stop you receiving acupuncture.  As part of your detailed physiotherapy assessment these will be established. 

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What happens when I see my physiotherapist for acupuncture? 

If suitable for acupuncture, the number of needles used will vary according to your condition and symptoms.  Usually, between 1-10 needles may be used at a time.

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The needles are inserted through the skin either at the sites where you feel pain, away from the pain or a combination of both.  The needles are usually left in for as little as a few seconds or for up to 30 minutes.  During the treatment, your physiotherapist may stimulate the needles by gently rotating them. 

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How many sessions will I have? 

The overall number of times acupuncture is utilised will depend on you, your condition and your physiotherapist's assessment. Most patients receive a course of up to 6 treatments although just one or two treatments may be enough.  Treatments are normally given at 1-2 weekly intervals although this can also vary.  It is generally clear after a few sessions whether or not acupuncture will benefit you and if treatment should be continued. 

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How long until I see an improvement in my condition?

The effectives of acupuncture can be spontaneous, however generally they are cumulative.  Different people respond in different ways and at different rates.  Some people may feel an immediate relief of their symptoms whilst others may only see a gradual improvement after a few treatments. Some people may find that their condition/symptoms flare up for up to 24 hours after the treatment but then see a marked improvement.  

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Does acupuncture hurt? 

Acupuncture should not be painful.  The needles used are the same width as human hair so having acupuncture does not feel the same as having an injection. 

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When needles are inserted, you may feel a temporary, sharp sensation.  During the treatment itself, you may have a feeling of warmth, numbness, or a mild ache. Alternatively, you may not feel the needle at all. 

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Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is a very safe procedure when carried out by fully qualified professionals. At 3RPhysiotherapy we are members of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP).  Please see the AACP website for further information. 

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The needles used at 3RPhysiotherapy are individually packaged, sterile and disposed of after one use. They also have guide tubes surrounding them for easy insertion which means that there is no risk of anything else touching the needle during the process.  

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Are there any side affects to acupuncture? 

Any side effects tend to be mild and short lived.  They may include: fatigue, light headedness, bruising, soreness and redness of the skin around the needle sites.  

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