Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the insertion of very fine needles at specific points on your body, in order to stimulate flow of energy, hence restoring normal physiological function and equilibrium.

In the West, acupuncture is commonly used to treat pain. Neurophysiology research suggests acupuncture relieves pain and facilitates aspects of tissue healing by stimulating nervous system pathways and hormones involving the perception of pain and dilation of blood vessels, among others. While regulations in Australia allow health professionals to perform “dry needling” in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms by completing short courses, these tend to focus on treatment of myofascial (muscle and soft tissue) pain, and do not cover in-depth, aspects of diagnosis and point selection considerations of acupuncture in TCM.

As an example, in the treatment of cervicogenic (neck related) headaches, it is common for physiotherapists and doctors to “dry needle” local trigger points in the neck muscles, to relieve symptoms. An acupuncturist, typically would also complement the local points, with distant or systemic points, depending on each person’s particular signs and symptoms. It is said that a skilled acupuncturist should bear in mind, to address the “branches” and “root” of a condition. The treatment is then refined with needle manipulation techniques and/or electroacupuncture to enhance the therapeutic effect or pain relief required. 

In these ways, our philosophy and practice are very much modern, scientific, and also holistic and personalised. This is how we stay true to our mission, to treat each person as a unique individual, help him/her to get well and stay well, by offering wide choices of therapeutic tools and a high standard of care.