Medical acupuncture is a therapy of pain relief by inserting and manipulating fine needles into specific areas of skin/muscles.
Inserting acupuncture needles into the skin/muscles creates a relaxation within the muscles, inhibits pain pathways neurologically, and to release the body's neurochemicals called endorphins.
Fine needles are inserted into an area of muscles that display characteristics of trigger point (pain on an area of the muscle). The needles may be gently manipulated mildly to stimulate pain receptors and increase the blood supply in the area.
Multiple amounts of needles may be used in areas locally to the pain and more slightly distant from the area.
Does it hurt?
The needles are fine; they can give minimal pain that is generally not noticed. Nevertheless, many practitioners, including myself have not reported any pain.
What does it usually treat?
Treat musculoskeletal pain, for example - back, shoulder, neck and leg pain.
It has been used to treat headaches, migraines, trapped nerves, chronic muscle strains, sports injuries and various kinds of arthritis and rheumatic pain.
Is there any aftercare from acupuncture treatment?
This relates to the release of endorphins; it can cause you to feel very relaxed, almost sleepy. I generally advise my clients to avoid driving for a couple of hours after treatment."