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Acupuncture is a component of the health care technique that can be traced back at least 2,500 years. It finds its origin in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) where it was traditionally believed that there are patterns of energy flow, called Qi, through the body. The movement of these patterns and pathways of energy are essential for good health. Thus, disruptions or imbalances in this flow result in pain and disease. Acupuncture is believed to be capable of restoring balance back to the body, by treating identifiable points close to the skin.
Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into certain points around the body to produce beneficial effects. Each point is picked by the acupuncturist depending on your ailment and the treatment goals. In the modern day, acupuncture theories have been combined with western science to produce different needling techniques. For example, these techniques may focus on stimulating the muscles and nerves to produce beneficial effects like improved blood flow, stress relief, muscle flexibility and more.
Many people seek acupuncture treatment for relief from pain or discomfort. When used to complement medical treatment and/or physical therapy, it has been used with success with chronic pains, headaches, and migraines. It has even been found to help reduce side effects like joint/nerve pain and nausea from cancer treatments. The best part of all is that acupuncture is considered low risk. Some may seek it for relief from physical ailments while others find it may help with stress relief and mental wellbeing. Below are just some of the conditions in which acupuncture may be helpful.
Although the needles may look intimidating, rest assured that most people find acupuncture very relaxing. All of our sessions are performed by trained and registered professionals, so you know that you are in good hands with PhysioNow! You will discuss your symptoms and goals with your practitioner who will use that to create an acupuncture treatment plan with you where they will lay out which points they will use. They will arrange you comfortably either sitting or laying down and then insert the needles. You may feel a slight pinch as the needles go in but it is relatively pain free. Once the needles are in, they will be left for around 15-20 minutes to get the best benefit, and you will have time to relax. Afterwards, your practitioner will help you with the removal of the needles and help you book your next session.
Acupuncture is a very safe procedure overall, but it is important that you are aware of all the possible side effects whether mild or major. Starting with the mild side effects that you may experience after a session includes soreness, light bleeding and/or bruising around the treated area. Some people report feeling fatigued, nauseous, or experiencing lightheadedness but these effects usually fade within a couple minutes to hours, to a day.
The rare and uncommon side effects are usually from a lack of training or receiving acupuncture from a nonreputable or untrained individual. The most common serious injury reported from the needles of acupuncture has been accidental puncture of the lung. Other serious side effects include infections at the acupuncture sites. Generally, serious side effects have been linked to poor hygiene and training of the acupuncturist. At PhysioNow, we can ensure that needles are single use, sterile, and disposed of properly after each session. We have very strict cleanliness and sharps handling protocols to ensure the best health and safety of our patients. Our acupuncturists are all professionally trained and have been registered and approved to practice.
There are several types of acupuncture needles. In ancient China, 9 different types of acupuncture needles were used. Today, the most commonly used needle is the metal filiform (thread-like) needle that is made from stainless steel. Very occasionally, silver or gold needles are used. Acupuncture needles come in different gauges (diameter) and lengths to be used on the different areas of the body where they are to be inserted. The needles used nowadays are mostly very fine, they vary from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm in diameter.
Treatment for patients who are intoxicated should be delayed
Treatment should be delayed for patients who suffer extreme fatigue
Patients who are fasting or famished should delay treatment
Treatment of patients who overeat should be delayed
Caution is advised for patients who exhibit nervousness or extreme fear
Caution is also advised for patients showing any strong emotion
Women who are pregnant should tell the therapist before any needling
Treatment should be avoided for patients who take any blood thinner
For further information, or to book an appointment, please call PhysioNow at 289-724-0448. We have experienced Physiotherapists who can explain more about acupuncture and whether you may benefit from treatment.
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We are located in Applewood, Erin Mills, Lorne Park, Hurontario-Eglinton, Maple Grove, Etobicoke South, Burlington, Creditview-Bristol, Clarkson Village and Oakville North.
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