Musculoskeletal Pain
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain and injury.
Olivia has a special interest in musculoskeletal injury, and is also a qualified master dry needler.
Modern research supports the use of acupuncture for a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions including
Cupping, moxibustion and massage feel great and are routinely incorporated into musculoskeletal treatments.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion can help in the following ways:
• Pain relief: Studies have shown that acupuncture can provide pain relief for musculoskeletal injuries, including acute injuries and chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, low back pain, and neck pain. The mechanism of action is thought to involve the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances.
• Inflammation reduction: Acupuncture has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial in musculoskeletal injuries where inflammation is present. It can help reduce swelling and promote tissue healing.
• Improved function: Studies suggest that acupuncture can improve functional outcomes in musculoskeletal injuries such as enhancing range of motion, decreasing stiffness, and improving joint mobility.
• Combination therapy: Acupuncture is often used as part of a multimodal treatment approach for musculoskeletal injuries, alongside other interventions such as physical therapy, exercise, and medication. Combining acupuncture with other therapies may enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.
Electro–acupuncture is particularly effective for pain management as extensive studies over the last decade have found that it alleviates both sensory and affective inflammatory pain, and inhibits inflammatory and neuropathic pain by activating a variety of bioactive chemicals through peripheral, spinal and supraspinal mechanisms. (1)
Clinical trials have found that acupuncture is safe to use immediately after injury, and immediately after surgery for post-operative pain when practised by a suitably qualified professional.
1. Zhang R, Lao L, Ren K, Berman BM. Mechanisms of acupuncture-electroacupuncture on persistent pain. Anesthesiology. 2014 Feb;120(2):482-503. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000000101. PMID: 24322588; PMCID: PMC3947586.
Headache & Migraine
Chinese medicine takes a holistic approach to treating headaches and migraines by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to restore the flow of Qi and rebalance the body. Acupuncture can help alleviate pain, reduce the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines and promote overall relaxation and well-being.
• Herbal medicine: Chinese herbal remedies are often prescribed to address the root causes of headaches and migraines. Herbal formulas are tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and constitution. These herbs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and calming effects and help prevent migraines from returning.
• Cupping: Chinese medicine cupping therapy is a traditional practice that has been used for centuries to treat various conditions including headaches and migraines. Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin to pull up the muscle fibres causing the muscles of the neck, shoulders and back to relax to alleviate tension headaches.
Modern medicine supports the use of acupuncture and herbal medicine in the treatment of migraines and headaches.