Acupuncture has been used for over 2500 years.  Acupuncture is an art as much as it is a tool.  Therefore experience, practice and choice of points all influence one’s experience and benefits from treatment. Acupuncture has been known to ‘awaken’ your self healing capabilities. Physiotherapists can use acupuncture as a modality during a physiotherapy treatment as long as they have completed training and received their certification in acupuncture. 

A one time use of a fine sterile filiform needle is inserted in key points of the body to stimulate blood flow and to increase endorphin levels. This can reduce or eliminate pain, decrease inflammation and muscular tension. In the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture is believed to connect acupuncture points by opening pathways (meridians) to create better energy flow (Chi), through the body and improve overall health. 

What does it feel like?

The inserted needle may cause a slight sensation of pressure, mild ache or no sensation at all.  Most of the time, patients barely feel the needle. The needles remain inserted for approximately 15-20 minutes.  During that time, you might feel a gentle awareness of the needle, heat in and around the area, and/or a gentle current in the area. It is also very normal to feel nothing at all!  After acupuncture, a feeling of relaxation might arise as it can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Depending on the points treated, you may even feel energized and invigorated.  

At Ethos Collective Physiotherapy, acupuncture can be a modality used during your physiotherapy session. If we decide to administer acupuncture during a portion of the session, the treatment will be billed under ‘Physiotherapy’ and the treatment price will remain the same.