Acupuncture is one of the many skills employed within physiotherapy as part of an integrated approach to the management of pain and inflammation. Acupuncture forms part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This ancient system of medicine dates back as far as 1000 years BC and is based on a holistic concept of treatment which regards ill health as a manifestation of imbalance in the body’s energy. Re-establishing a correct balance is the aim of TCM. Energy is referred to as Qi, (pronounced chi) and is described in terms of Yin energy – quiet and calm and Yang energy –vigorous and exciting. They are complementary opposites and in health exist in a dynamic but balanced state in the body. Practitioners of TCM believe that stimulating certain Acupuncture points on the body can help to restore the balance between Yin and Yang that becomes disturbed in illness.
We combine TCM principles with scientific evidence as a means of reducing pain and promoting healing, always with the aim of enhancing physiotherapy treatments such as exercise and rehabilitation techniques to promote recovery and improve quality of life.
Acupuncture is safe when practised by a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) because of the strict hygiene guidelines that must be adhered to, and the training courses and educational updates that are required in order to stay on the membership register.
Once you arrive at the Clinic, you will be seen by our friendly reception team. If this is your first visit then you will be requested to fill out a patient details form which will include your details and your consent for assessment and treatment of your problem. You will then see your physiotherapist who will take you to the treatment area.
It will be helpful if you can get your GP details and any other relevant medical information like investigation reports, previous clinic letters and medical reports.
Our chartered physiotherapists will discuss your condition with you. This will include taking a full history of your problem and careful physical examination of the area involved. From there we can decide whether physiotherapy is appropriate and then formulate a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Please note that you may be required to undress as appropriate for your physiotherapist to properly assess the area. It is often necessary to assess areas surrounding the primary area of complaint. Please wear or bring along suitable clothing to assist in this matter. You may also bring someone with you for your appointment as a chaperone.
We can also refer for private investigations like MRI scan, Ultrasound scan or X-rays.
Payment is taken at the end of each treatment session and can be made either by cash, debit or credit card or cheque.
Off street parking is available around the clinic.
We are recognised by all major medical insurers. Please contact us for a full list. If we are not recognised by your insurer, we may be able to apply for recognition so please ask.
We are able to bill some insurance companies directly. But, we will need details like – the name of the policy holder, your membership or policy number and authorisation code. We also need to know details of excess and treatment limitations prior to starting your course of treatment.
Please note that many private medical policies require that you are referred by your doctor in order to gain authorisation. It is advised that you contact your insurer for authorisation before your first appointment.
Please contact us if you need any further information.