Dry Needling

What is Needling?

Acupuncture is an ancient system of healing that was developed as part of the traditional medicine of China, Japan and other Eastern countries.

The practice of acupuncture began with the discovery that stimulation of specific areas on the skin affects the functioning of certain organs of the body. The current practices have evolved into a system of medicine that restores and maintains health by the insertion of fine needles into points (called acupuncture points or acupoints) just below the surface of the skin. These points are in very specific locations and lie on special channels of energy that are called meridians.

How does acupuncture work?  

Acupuncture is just one part of the broader system of treatment known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which is based on the concept of an energy flow through the body called Qi or Chi. This energy is circulated through the body via 14 main energy pathways called meridians. Each one of these pathways or channels is thought to be linked to an internal organ. It is believed that if this flow of energy is blocked, imbalances occur which in turn lead to health problems.

This block in the energy flow can be cleared away with the insertion of acupuncture needles at special acupuncture points along the meridians. When the needles are applied to the points the organ function is stimulated. There are 1,000 acupuncture points within the meridian system.

Acupuncture and acupressure (the stimulation of the points with the fingers and hands) treatments are aimed at unblocking the meridians, easing muscle tension, and stimulating the energy and blood flow so the natural healing mechanisms of the body are adjusted, striking a balance in the body.

What is acupuncture used for?  

Traditionally, acupuncture practitioners have treated a large number of different illnesses; however, in Australia, the primary use is often to alleviate pain, but its therapeutic applications have been gradually expanding. Today, acupuncture is commonly used in treating addictions, controlling weight and enhancing recuperation following surgery or the effects of a stroke.

Some common conditions that can successfully be treated or relieved by acupuncture include:

• headache and migraine;

• anxiety, depression, nervous tension, stress;

• addictions such as smoking and alcoholism; insomnia;

• digestive problems such as indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation;

• bowel problems such as colitis and haemorrhoids;

• liver and gallbladder problems;

• kidney and bladder problems;

• respiratory problems such as asthmatic conditions, bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, sore throat, earache, cold and influenza;

• skin conditions such as acne, eczema or psoriasis;

• muscle problems including athletic injuries, cramps, strains and sprains; arthritic conditions including the general pain of arthritis, sciatica, bursitis, tendonitis, gout; and toothache, gum problems and mouth ulcers.