Acupuncture Manchester
Our experienced Acupuncturists in central Manchester are on hand to provide symptom relief for several chronic conditions. Alongside relief of MSK (Musculoskeletal) pain, acupuncture can help in the relief of other conditions such as stress, headaches, hormonal issues and allergies.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient treatment which originated in China over 500 years ago. Modern western medical acupuncture is used after medical diagnosis and involves fine needles being inserted into the skin in order to stimulate sensory nerves and muscles of the body. It is becoming an increasingly frequent practice in healthcare in the UK and a growing number of studies are proving its effectiveness.
The person who provides the acupuncture treatment is called an acupuncturist. Freedom Care Clinics Manchester acupuncturists are medical professionals who uses a holistic approach to balance and maintain an individual’s health. They are trained to focus on the individual instead of the medical issue and their aim is to improve their patient’s well-being.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed into the skin to stimulate sensory nerves, which are found under the skin and in the muscles. This causes the body to produce endorphins, which are natural substances that the body produces to relieve pain.
During your acupuncture session, your acupuncturist will insert needles into the skin in specific anatomic points in the body. These points are called acupoints. It works by:
- Acupuncture results in a sensation of improved well-being, feeling revitalised, more positive and relaxed
- Providing pain relief by way of releasing endorphins and changing the processing of pain in the spinal cord and brain
- Reducing inflammation
- Relieving muscle stiffness
- Reducing the need for pain medication
A course of sessions is usually found to be most beneficial when it comes to relieving pain. Our acupuncture clinicians in Manchester have been practising acupuncture for many years now, so you are in good hands.
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
- Headaches – including migraine and tension-type headaches. (Included in National Institute Clinical Excellence NICE guidelines)
- Chronic pain – is defined as pain lasting greater than 3 months (included in NICE guidelines)
- Osteoarthritis (Vickers et al 2018)
- Back pain (Vickers et al 2018)
- Neck pain (Vickers et al 2018)
- Shoulder pain (Vickers et al 2018)
- Relief of temporomandibular joint pain – temporary (ASA guidelines)
- Improved Fertility in combination with IVF (Smith et al 2019)
- Overactive bladder syndrome – temporary (ASA guidelines)
- Osteoarthritis knee pain – temporary (ASA guidelines)
The World Health Organisation (WHO) also state Acupuncture may benefit the following conditions:-
- Allergies
- Insomnia
- Pelvic pain (including gynaecological and premenstrual pain)
- Stress and anxiety
- Sciatica
- IBS
- Menopausal Symptoms
Why Choose Us for Acupuncture in Manchester?
You can be sure that at Freedom Care Clinics Manchester, you’ll find the latest facilities and equipment. And you’ll be in safe hands with our practitioners. Each one is fully qualified, registered (with the relevant regulatory bodies) and experienced to provide the care you need.
Our clinic is conveniently located in the city’s centre and is open from early morning to late evening. We’re also open on weekends. This makes it easier for you to schedule an appointment and work it into your busy lifestyle.
You can also expect excellent, affordable care with our fixed priced and discount treatment packages. These make the cost of treatment courses manageable and affordable.
We are confident that you will be impressed with our facilities are services. These are a few of the reasons why Freedom Care Clinic is the best option when it comes to your health. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Our Patient Advisers are ready to help you.
What To Expect At Freedom Care Clinics, Acupuncture in Manchester
On your initial appointment your Acupuncturist will listen and ask questions about your presenting complaint, your overall health, and other medical care you may be receiving. This information will be recorded in your records and is kept completely confidential.
After taking a case history the Acupuncturist will perform a Chinese Medicine examination. This may involve taking your pulse and examining the area of pain and other areas of your body.
Following the examination, your Acupuncturist will discuss your diagnosis, and, if required, formulate a plan for resolving your issue. Most Acupuncture appointments last between 30 minutes and an hour. Treatment may also include cupping therapy, electro-acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tui Na massage.
Are There Any Side Effects With Acupuncture?
When done by a professional acupuncturist, there may be a few mild side effects including:
- Pain where the needles were inserted
- Bleeding/bruising where the needles entered the skin
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
Acupuncture treatment may be adapted if you have haemophilia or if you’re taking anticoagulant medications or have a metal allergy. So, be sure to talk with your GP and let the acupuncturist know before a treatment.
In addition, acupuncture is not advised for anyone who has a metal allergy or if you have an infection where the needles will be inserted.
British Acupuncture Council
There is no regulation of acupuncture by law in England; however, you can be sure that your practitioner is a:-
- Acupuncturists registered with the British Acupuncture Council, Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine or British Medical Acupuncture Society.
- Doctor or Nurse.
- Osteopath or Chiropractor
- Physiotherapist
If they’re not one of these medical professionals, then ask your acupuncturist is they belong to a recognised register before starting treatment.