Acupuncture for Pain Relief & Musculoskeletal Conditions
Acupuncture is a treatment technique originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of very fine sterile needles into specific points of the body to help reduce pain and support recovery.
At The Physio Group, acupuncture is delivered using a modern Western medical approach and is used specifically as a treatment for pain relief within physiotherapy rehabilitation. Treatment is always based on a clinical diagnosis and used alongside evidence-based physiotherapy techniques.
How Acupuncture Works
Research suggests acupuncture can stimulate the nervous system and promote the release of the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins). It may also help improve local blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and assist recovery when combined with physiotherapy treatment.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Acupuncture may be used to help manage pain associated with:
- Trapped or irritated nerves
- Acute whiplash injuries
- Muscle strains and “dead leg” injuries
- Tennis elbow and tendon pain
- Neck and back pain
- Persistent muscle tension
Our Clinical Approach
All acupuncture treatments at The Physio Group are provided by Chartered Physiotherapists trained through the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP).
Acupuncture is used as an adjunct to physiotherapy and may include:
- Targeted acupuncture needling for pain relief
- Hands-on physiotherapy treatment
- Exercise rehabilitation programmes
- Movement and pain management strategies
Needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use. Patients commonly describe the sensation as a mild tingling, warmth, or dull ache, often followed by relaxation.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
When performed by appropriately trained healthcare professionals, acupuncture is considered a very safe treatment. Occasionally, minor side effects such as slight bruising, a small spot of blood, or temporary light-headedness may occur but usually settle quickly.
A full assessment is completed beforehand to identify any medical conditions or contraindications where acupuncture may not be appropriate.
Does Acupuncture Really Work?
Research suggests acupuncture can help reduce pain by stimulating the nervous system and encouraging the release of natural painkillers within the body. It is most effective when combined with a structured physiotherapy treatment plan rather than used as a standalone treatment.
For many patients, acupuncture helps to:
- Reduce pain sensitivity
- Decrease muscle tension
- Improve movement comfort
- Support rehabilitation progression
What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
