Acupuncture originated in China thousands of years ago.  It is the use of very fine, sterile needles that are inserted into particular points on the skin.  The Chinese believe that channels (meridians) of energy (Qi) are restored and balanced through needle insertion.

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Acupuncture Physiotherapists (AACP trained) do not base their treatment on TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) beliefs, but on evidence-based western medical acupuncture research. On this basis, acupuncture is one of the many skills a physiotherapist might use as part of an integrated approach to the management of pain and inflammation.

Acupuncture can be combined with other physiotherapy treatments such as exercise, manual therapy and relaxation techniques. 

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Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce endorphins and oxytocin, its own pain- and stress- relieving chemicals. It promotes sleep by stimulating the release of melatonin in the body and encourages a sense of well-being by stimulating the release of serotonin. Acupuncture also stimulates nerve fibres to block out pain signals and helps to reduce the sensitivity of tender points in the body.