Medical Acupuncture & Electro- Medical Acupuncture (EMA)

What is Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture is the strategic insertion of sterile needles into the skin for a therapeutic effect. It has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years ands its popularity in western medicine continues to grow as more people benefit from it.

How does it work?

In western medicine the emphasis is often on triggering the body's own systems to modulate pain and dysfunction.

What does it feel like?

Acupuncture is a relatively painless treatment, however a small scratch type sensation can be experienced when insertion takes place. The desired sensation of deqi has been described at best as a tingling sensation or a dull ache, but differs between individuals.

How long will I have to wait until I feel the benefit?

This differs for everyone, but a minimum of 6 sessions provides the maximum benefit. However, some individuals will experience relief after 2 or 3 sessions.

The needles used are single use, sterile disposable needles.

What is Electro-Medical Acupuncture (EMA)?

EMA is a modified form of traditional manual dry needling (medical acupuncture) in which a pulsating electrical current is applied between pairs of needles. The frequency and strength of the electrical pulses being delivered can be varied. During a standard EMA session, several pairs of needles can be stimulated simultaneously, for a length of time between 8 to 20 minutes.

EMA is used as an effective alternative and complementary treatment to treat acute and chronic pain. EMA has an effect on sustained pain reduction, increased tissue repair and a beneficial effect on the immune system.

The use of EMA can be thought of as a modern scientific extension of medical acupuncture.

Examples of EMA use include:

      acute musculoskeletal pain, post operative pain,

      facial

      back pain and arthritis

Other improvements in musculoskeletal conditions include:

acceleration of tissue repair by increasing circulation

increase in blood flow , increased muscle strengthening, improved muscle control, reduction of muscle spasticity,

improved healing of areas surrounding scar tissue.