Western Medical Acupuncture (also known as needling) is an adaptation of Traditional Chinese Medical acupuncture, and uses knowledge of anatomy and physiology to stimulate the body’s healing processes. Western Medical Acupuncture may be used as treatment for several podiatric problems. The focus of treatment is on resolution of pain and improvement of function. Podiatrists may use acupuncture to treat symptoms associated with musculoskeletal disorders, neurological disorders and circulatory disorders relating to the lower limb. Acupuncture may be combined with other modalities to achieve optimal treatment results.
Common conditions treated include:
- Osteoarthritis pain in the knee, ankle or toe joints
- Plantar fasciitis pain or general heel pain
- Achilles tendon pain
- Diabetic neuropathic pain (a burning sensation in the toes or feet)
- Oedema (swelling) of the ankles
- Recovery of sprain related injuries
- Excessive sweating of the feet
- Treatment of cold feet including Raynauds
- Assisting the reduction of scar tissue
If you are experiencing any discomfort or pain in your feet or lower limbs please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we can discuss an appropriate treatment plan.
A typical Acupuncture appointment will last around 30 minutes and we always recommend that at least 3 treatments are booked to feel the full benefit over a period of 3 weeks. It’s worth noting that Diabetic patients are suitable for Acupuncture treatment and it can provide pain relief amongst other secondary benefits. It can also be helpful throughout pregnancy, although certain Acupuncture points will be avoided.
When attending your appointment we would ask that you wear loose trousers or shorts. We will take a full medical history and the current pain or discomfort that you are experiencing will be discussed. Prior to your treatment the appropriate points on the feet and legs will be ‘mapped’ so that the Acupuncture session is tailored to your needs.
Acupuncture needles are inserted and stimulated for around 20 minutes. We use specialist Acupuncture needles which are sterile, single use and silicone coated – designed to provide excellent insertion and gliding properties for maximum patient comfort. After needles have been removed the areas that have been treated will be massaged with an appropriate oil or emollient selected specifically for your needs.