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What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest recorded forms of medicine having been used in China for over 3,000 years. Traditional Chinese belief is that energy flows freely throughout the body, via channels. When there is a problem, the energy stagnates.
Stimulation by acupuncture, at various points, helps to restore the healthy flow of energy in the body. Modern science has shown that acupuncture stimulates the brain to produce natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins). These assist the body to heal itself and give pain relief.
What will it involve?
Treatment will consist of the insertion of fine needles. These are sterile and disposable, ensuring strict hygiene practice. You will be asked to undress appropriately.
The needle insertion may feel like a mild pinprick and should only give temporary discomfort. You may feel an achy, numb, tingly, heavy or warm sensation around the needle. This is known as
“De-Qi” and is a sign the body is reacting to acupuncture. Occasionally it can give a more intense sensation, or you may feel nothing at all.
The number of needles and length of needles used will vary and may be left in place for up to ½ hour. Your physio may “stimulate” the needles at times through the treatment; this involves gently twisting them. Acupuncture points will be selected that are suitable for your condition and may not always be at the area of pain and may vary through the course of treatment.
Acupuncture needles are also sometimes inserted into trigger points (tight sensitive areas in the muscles) to relieve pain and restore movement. It can sometimes take several treatments to produce a noticeable benefit.
Please note, you have the right to stop treatment at any time.
What are the benefits?
Chartered Physiotherapists use acupuncture specifically to relieve pain. They are in a unique position of being able to combine acupuncture with other treatment methods such as exercises, manipulation and stretching. This combined approach is more likely to lead to successful rehabilitation.
Is it Safe?
There are only a few instances where acupuncture treatment requires caution or should not be used. Please let your physiotherapist know if you have any of the following:
- Pregnancy
- Infected/fragile skin
- Epilepsy
- Steroid tablets
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune system
- Needle Phobia
- Clotting/Bleeding disorders – i.e. Hemophilia
- Heart pacemaker
- Anticoagulant tablets – (blood thinning tablets)
- Metal allergy
- Unstable blood pressure
If your health changes during the course of your treatment, please inform your physiotherapist.
Minor Side Effects
- Some discomfort at needle site
- Drowsiness following treatment
- Bruising/minor bleeding at the needle side
- Temporary pain increase
- Fainting/feeling faint (rare)
Serious Side Effects
According to the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists, serious side effects are very rare-less than 1 per 10,000.
- Damage to an internal organ from insertion of a needle
- Infection (please note, single use, sterile disposable needles used)
- It is advisable not to attend if you are suffering from a severe cold or flu.
Although acupuncture is an established procedure, there may be other adverse effects that have not been recorded. If you experience any of the above or notice anything unusual about your health following your treatment, then you should contact your physiotherapist or GP straight away
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will it hurt? You should feel no more than mild discomfort as the needles are so fine.
- Can I drive home after treatment? Yes. Though rarely patients feel a little faint after acupuncture and may need to wait a short while before driving.
- Do I continue to take my tablets? Yes - unless otherwise advised.
- Do I need to do anything before treatment? Yes, ensure you have eaten breakfast/lunch or at least a healthy snack before your appointment.
- How do I know if it's working? Be patient - acupuncture is not a "quick fix", but the effects can build up over several treatments. It works best when combined with any exercise you have been advised to do. The number of sessions will vary according to your condition, if you do not feel significantly better after 3-4 treatments it is unlikely to help.
- How long do the benefits last for? This varies enormously. Please discuss this with your Physiotherapist but please note, acupuncture is not a long-term treatment option within our department.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Physiotherapy service.
About this information
Service:
Physiotherapy
Reference:
BB/017
Approval date:
6 November 2026
Review date:
1 November 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.