Spencer Joseph
DCHAc LicZS DipAPNT MNCPS (Prof Accred) CSTII DipITEC D.Hyp BA (Hons) Phil
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is defined as the insertion of ultra-fine needles into the body for therapeutic purposes. For several thousand years it has been used to treat a wide range of illnesses by improving the overall well being of the patient, as well as addressing specific symptoms.
According to traditional Chinese philosophy good health is dependent on life force (Qi) moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels (meridians) in the body.
The flow of qi can be disturbed by many factors including emotional stress, environment, nutrition, genetics, infections and injury. By inserting fine needles into the channels an acupuncturist can stimulate the body’s own healing response and help to improve vitality.
Acupuncture may help to regulate response in the nervous system, therefore helping to reduce muscular tension, improve blood circulation and provide health benefits for a wide range of different conditions.
Pain Management
Some recent studies suggest that acupuncture stimulates the release of the body’s natural painkillers and can affect pain processing structures within the brain.
Electro acupuncture involves the transmission of a low level electrical current through the needles which creates a regulating effect on the body. It is sometimes particularly useful in pain management as the electrical activity can help to reduce pain impulses in the sensory nervous system.
Treatment
An acupuncturist uses specific diagnostic methods in order to understand the individual pattern of disharmony that each patient presents. Following a thorough consultation needles are inserted at selected locations where appropriate regulation of the body can occur. This is usually a comfortable process and effects can be immediate. All needles are fully sterilised and only used once.
