Acupuncture/dry needling

Introduction

This information will provide you with details about acupuncture and dry needling.

Physiotherapists have a wide range of treatment methods. Acupuncture/dry needling is just one of them.

What is acupuncture/dry needing?

Acupuncture has been used for over 3000 years in China. There are several ideas as to how it works. Needles are inserted into specific points on the body chosen by your therapist. These points are specific to your condition or if they are tender. The original Chinese view is that Qi (energy) flows freely through the body when in a healthy state. If there is a problem, condition, illness etc. then the energy slows up. The stimulation of appropriate acupuncture points with needles, frees the energy, so easing the painful condition.

In more recent times, some have adapted and modified the principles and use similar techniques, but prefer and or more commonly refer to the treatment as dry needling.

Has it been researched?

Research has shown that acupuncture/dry needling stimulates the brain to produce natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins. These help the body to heal itself and give pain relief.

Is acupuncture/dry needling safe?

Acupuncture/dry needling is generally very safe. Side effects are very rare, less than 1 per 10000 treatments. Only single use sterile disposable needles are used.

Will it work?

Firstly, you do not have to believe in acupuncture/dry needling for it to work. About 70% of people gain some pain relief with acupuncture/dry needling. Certain individuals can be seen as “good responders” to treatment. Others need several treatments and some do not respond at all.

The number of sessions needed varies according to

• The individual
• The condition or problem
• The length of time of the condition i.e. recent or longstanding.

Are there any side effects?

• During your first treatment your pain could increase. This is only short term and generally it can be a good sign.
• You may feel tired after treatment. If so, it is advisable not to drive, until this passes.
• You may have minor bleeding or bruising.
• Pain during treatment occurs in 1% of people.
• Existing pain can get worse after treatment in only 3 % of people.
• You may feel faint or light-headed. This is particularly during your first treatment. This is normally only short lasting. Please do not drive until this passes.
• If unsure or worried you can bring along another adult for support.
• Please make sure that you have had something to eat before attending for acupuncture.

What should I expect?

Acupuncture/dry needling is usually added with other treatments. It will also include advice on lifestyle. You will be asked questions prior to starting your acupuncture. This is to see if there are any reasons why not to have acupuncture. The length of individual treatment sessions will be discussed with your Physiotherapist.

You may be asked to wait for 5 to 10 minutes following your first treatment.

Will it hurt?

When inserting the fine needles it may give rise to a sensation. This should only be a temporary mild discomfort at most. At times a more intense sensation is experienced. This is thought to indicate the movement of energy at the acupuncture point. Modern thinking suggests this may be related to stimulation of small nerves.

Worries or concerns

For non-urgent issues or concerns

For non-urgent issues or concerns please contact your Clinician or through their Administrator via the NHS Fife Hospital Switchboard 01592 643355 or contact the Physiotherapy Service, Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy 01592 648106 or Queen Margaret, Dunfermline 01383 627032.

Urgent out of the hours advice

For an urgent problem out of hours, please contact NHS 24 on 111 or attend Accident and Emergency.

Emergency advice

For emergency advice, attend Accident and Emergency or call 999.