Acupuncture and TCM are a complete health care system. There are very few conditions that do not benefit from a course of acupuncture or TCM. It is possible to combine both Western and Eastern medicine in the management of your condition, and we work closely with treatment providers including your physiotherapist and GP.
The following list of conditions that acupuncture and TCM can treat is based on recommendations from the World Health Organisation.- Musculo-skeletal – lower back pain, joint sprains, muscle strain, sciatica, arthritis, sporting injuries, sports performance or enhancement.
- Respiratory conditions – sinus problems, hay fever, common cold or flu, asthma, bronchitis.
- Gastrointestinal disorders – constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, haemorrhoids, heartburn and reflux.
- Cardiovascular – angina, palpitations, high or low blood pressure.
- Womens’ Health – irregular or painful periods, premenstrual difficulties, menopausal symptoms.
- Pregnancy – morning sickness, heartburn, elevated blood pressure, oedema, lower back pain, preparation for labour.
- Mens’ Health – prostate problems
- Neurological – headaches including migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, shingles, meniere’s disease, tinnitus, Bell’s palsy, post-stroke syndrome, insomnia, excessive dreaming.
- Metabolic disorders – chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, hormonal irregularities
- Urological disorders – urinary tract infections, nocturia, bed wetting
- Psychological disorders – post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, smoking.
- Skin disorders – acne, psoriasis, eczema, scarring.
Acupuncture is the most well-known aspect of Chinese Medicine and can be used alone or in conjunction with herbal medicine, Moxibustion (the heating of specific acupuncture points using the herb Artemisia), or Tui-Na (Chinese massage).
Each of the organs of the body has its own associated channel or pathway of energy. These are often referred to as meridians. Very fine needles are inserted into points along the meridians with the aim of bringing the body to a point of balance and harmony. Acupuncture points are carefully selected and are determined not only by the ailment that someone presents with, but also by other life events that may be happening.
An Acupuncture treatment will usually take up to one hour, with needles left in place for 20-25 minutes. During this time people go in to a state of deep relaxation, and may drift off to sleep. Acupuncture is widely known for its effectiveness in treating musculo-skeletal injuries but traditionally has been used to treat respiratory, digestive, gynaecological and many other chronic conditions. Acupuncture and TCM treatment involves a holistic approach and your acupuncturist will often offer dietary, lifestyle, and exercise advice.
You can now make bookings online here. Come see the team at Lifestyle Physiotherapy.
