Acupuncture is an ancient discipline that China and Japan have used for hundreds of years as part of their medical model of healthcare.
Western medicine is embracing acupuncture as more good quality research is generated. As para-medical professionals, Physiotherapists should only use techniques that have good evidence behind them. 'Good evidence' means that research has shown a certain technique has a positive benefit and is not simply due to placebo effect (a willing mind producing a positive result). Acupuncture research shows that it can help relieve pain from back pain, arthritis of the knee, tension headaches, dental pain, nausea and vomiting. Our knowledge of the physiological effects of acupuncture means it can be used to help with pain from any source. This is because one of its mechanisms is to release natural chemicals from the brain to promote relaxation, decrease pain and help with anxiety and poor sleep. These chemicals include endorphins, melatonin and serotonin. For more information on how acupuncture works, click here: www.aacp.org.uk/how-does-acupuncture-work
Acupuncture qualified Physiotherapists have done additional post-graduate training. Most of us are registered with the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (http://www.aacp.org.uk/) which ensures that we continue to develop our skills by maintaining continuing professional development (CPD) standards.
Western medicine is embracing acupuncture as more good quality research is generated. As para-medical professionals, Physiotherapists should only use techniques that have good evidence behind them. 'Good evidence' means that research has shown a certain technique has a positive benefit and is not simply due to placebo effect (a willing mind producing a positive result). Acupuncture research shows that it can help relieve pain from back pain, arthritis of the knee, tension headaches, dental pain, nausea and vomiting. Our knowledge of the physiological effects of acupuncture means it can be used to help with pain from any source. This is because one of its mechanisms is to release natural chemicals from the brain to promote relaxation, decrease pain and help with anxiety and poor sleep. These chemicals include endorphins, melatonin and serotonin. For more information on how acupuncture works, click here: www.aacp.org.uk/how-does-acupuncture-work
Acupuncture qualified Physiotherapists have done additional post-graduate training. Most of us are registered with the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (http://www.aacp.org.uk/) which ensures that we continue to develop our skills by maintaining continuing professional development (CPD) standards.
