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WHAT IS WESTERN MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE ?

 

Western medical acupuncture (WMA) is a therapeutic modality involving the insertion of fine needles; it is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and the principles of evidence based medicine. While WMA has evolved from Chinese acupuncture, its practitioners no longer adhere to concepts such as Yin/Yang and circulation of qi, and regard acupuncture as part of conventional medicine rather than a complete “alternative medical system”. It acts mainly by stimulating the nervous system, and its known modes of action include local (site of insertion), segmental (area of body with related nerve supply to area of pain) and extrasegmental (area of the body unrelated to area of pain) neuromodulation, and other central nervous system effects. 

 

WMA is principally used by conventional healthcare practitioners, most commonly in primary care. Osteopaths in New Zealand have to complete a post-graduate certificate in Acupuncture (1 year part-time study) in order to utilise this treatment modality in practice. This additional study qualifies an extended scope of practice in Acupuncture. WMA is used to treat:

 

• Musculoskeletal pain (including myofascial trigger point pain) 

• Post-operative pain 

• Osteoarthritis pain

• Sciatica

• Headache disorders including migraines  

• Pregnancy-related conditions including morning sickness

• Seasonal allergies (hay fever)

 

IS WESTERN MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?

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As a treatment modality, it is generally very safe. The risk of serious events occurring in association with acupuncture are rare – less than 1 per 10,000 treatments.

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Examples of serious events may include infection, nerve injury or pneumothorax.

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If you were to develop symptoms (eg. shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough) that indicated a serious event had occurred, especially if you have had acupuncture around the thorax (ribcage area), it is important that you visit you nearest Accident and Emergency Department immediately.

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DOES WESTERN MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE HAVE SIDE EFFECTS?

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Individuals may vary significantly in their response to acupuncture treatment. Some patients will experience benefits immediately after treatment, while others may experience some mild to moderate side effects.

 

Please be aware that in some cases:

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• You may experience an increase in your pain during treatment (approx. 1% of treatments).

• Your pain may worsen after your treatment (approx. 3% of patients) Note: This is generally short-lived, and may indicate a strong response to treatment, which is usually a good sign.

• You may have some minor bleeding, or bruising may develop after acupuncture (approx. 3% of treatments).

• You may experience light-headedness or even faint, particularly if it is your first experience with acupuncture. You may also experience associated nausea, or even vomit.

• You may feel tired, drowsy or fatigued following acupuncture. If driving a motor vehicle, you may wish to bring a support person to drive you following treatment.

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Following taking your case history, if there are additional risks that apply to you, your Osteopath will discuss these prior to any treatment commencing.

 

IS THERE ANYTHING YOUR OSTEOPATH NEEDS TO KNOW?

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During your case history, you will be asked about your presenting complaint, as well as your medical history. It is important you let your Osteopath know if any of the following applies to you:

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•  Do you have a known bleeding disorder?

• Are you taking any anticoagulants (eg. Warfarin/Heparin), or any other medications?

• Do you have damaged heart valves?

• Do you have any other risks for infection?

• Have you ever experienced a fit, faint, blackout or funny turn?

• Do you have a pace maker or any other electrical implants?

• Are you currently pregnant?

• Have you had any adverse reactions to acupuncture treatment before?

• Is there any other reason why you should not have acupuncture?

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Please note, single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used in our clinic.