What is Western acupuncture or dry needling?

Western medical acupuncture is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture, it is a treatment modality involving the insertion of fine needles. However while it has evolved from Chinese acupuncture, practitioners of western acupuncture no longer adhere to concepts such as Yin/Yang and circulation of qi, instead they use current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and lead by well researched medical evidence.

It acts mainly by stimulating the nervous system and is used mostly to treat musculo-skeletal pain. It is also useful for post-operative pain, nausea, and inflammation.

There is evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture for these complaints: 

• Headaches

• Migraines

• Muscle and joint pain

• Low back pain

• Neck pain

• Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Aiding relaxation and reducing anxiety

The acupuncture is given by an Osteopath who has taken further training to qualify in Western Medical Acupuncture. After taking an appropriate medical history, the practitioner will begin the insertion of the acupuncture needles. These needles are inserted into specific places on the body, which practitioners call acupuncture points.

The needles used are fine and are usually a few centimetres long. They are single-use, pre-sterilised needles that are disposed of immediately after use.

The needles may be inserted just under the skin, or deeper so they reach muscle tissue. Once the needles are in place, they may be left in position for a length of time lasting from a few minutes up to around 20 minutes. You may feel a tingling or a dull ache when the needles are inserted. You should not experience any significant pain, if you do, let your practitioner know.

It is common to feel sleepy or light-headed after treatment, drink plenty of water and rest is often recommended afterwards.