Acupuncture dates back 3000 years. The traditional Chinese theory is Qi (energy) flows freely when the body is in a healthy state. If there is a problem, energy stagnates. The stimulation of appropriate acupuncture points frees the stagnation and allows the energy to flow.

The Western theory of acupuncture states the insertion of a fine needle into specific points, stimulates the body via the spinal cord and brain, this releases chemicals known as endorphins and encephalins. These chemicals help reduce pain. The effects are cumulative and because so many areas of the nervous system can be influenced, good results are frequently achieved when more conventional medicine has failed.

Research has shown 70% of people gain pain relief from acupuncture. There is nothing spiritual about it and you do not have to believe in acupuncture for it to work. Physiotherapy commonly uses acupuncture often combined with other treatments.

Conditions that may be help by acupuncture include Back and neck pain, sciatica, muscle spasm, headaches, arthritis and sinus pain.

If you have sustained an injury and are aiming to return to normal activities including sport and work, Physiotherapy can provide an activity or sport specific programme to improve muscle strength and flexibility. A wide range of strengthening, stretching, balance and postural exercises can be used. Improving strength and function of the muscles and connective tissues can aid return to sport and other activity.

Mobilisation involves the Physiotherapist passively moving a restricted joint of the spine or other joint to improve mobility using small oscillatory movements. Spinal manipulation is a common technique used for mechanical back and neck pain. It involves the Physiotherapist passively taking the joint to the end of range and then applying a thrust technique.

Mobilisation and manipulation are effective treatments used in a wide range of conditions where there is pain and restriction of joint movement. Restoration of mobility results in reduced pain and muscle spasm.

Pilates is an exercise technique that targets the deep postural muscles of the abdomen and spine to improve muscle balance, flexibility and overall central core stability and posture. See here for more information.

The soft tissues including muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue and fascia are often the source of pain. Physiotherapy uses a range of techniques including massage, muscle energy techniques, trigger point and myofascial release to allow tissues to function normally and reduce pain.

A deep connective tissue massage can be used to ease post exercise pain and loosen up.

To allow function taping and strapping techniques are commonly used to protect an injured area during the treatment and rehabilitation phase. It may also be used in injury prevention or to provide feedback of postural position. Shoulder, elbow, ankle and knee strapping are commonly used for the prevention and protection of sports related injuries.

Physiotherapy uses ultrasound to promote healing and reduce pain after an injury. It is often used with other Physiotherapy techniques.