Acupuncture is one of many treatments used by physiotherapists to help manage pain and inflammation
If you’re considering acupuncture to relieve pain, support recovery, or improve your overall wellbeing, The Priory Hospital in Birmingham, part of Circle Health Group, provides expert, personalised care. Our experienced physiotherapists are trained in both conventional rehabilitation and medical acupuncture, offering treatments that are safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs.
With flexible appointments, clear pricing, and a focus on your comfort and safety, The Priory Hospital is committed to helping you move more freely and feel better every day.
Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as “acupoints”. While acupuncture has its origins in traditional Chinese medicine, it is now widely used in modern physiotherapy and healthcare as a complementary therapy to manage pain and promote healing.
At The Priory Hospital, acupuncture is delivered by qualified physiotherapists who incorporate it into broader treatment programmes. Rather than being a standalone “alternative therapy”, it is used in combination with evidence-based approaches such as exercise therapy, manual therapy, and rehabilitation techniques.
The aim is not only to relieve pain but also to restore balance in the body, improve circulation, reduce tension, and support your natural recovery processes.
Medical acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system and the body’s natural pain-relieving and healing mechanisms. When fine needles are inserted into the skin, they can:
Although research is still ongoing, many studies support acupuncture as an effective way to relieve musculoskeletal pain and improve quality of life for people with a wide range of conditions.
People often describe feeling calmer, more mobile, and more energised after treatment.
The cost of acupuncture at The Priory Hospital depends on the number of sessions you require and whether it is part of a physiotherapy package.
At Circle Health Group hospitals, an initial physiotherapy appointment – including an assessment to determine whether acupuncture is suitable – typically starts from around £64 for self-pay patients. Follow-up sessions are charged at a fixed rate, which will be explained to you before your treatment begins.
Private medical insurance may also cover acupuncture, particularly when it is provided as part of a physiotherapy programme. Our team can help you confirm your coverage with your insurer.
For those paying directly, we offer transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden costs. You will always know what you are paying for before starting treatment.
Yes. When performed by trained professionals, acupuncture is considered a very safe treatment. At The Priory Hospital, all acupuncture is carried out by physiotherapists who have completed additional training in medical acupuncture. Only sterile, single-use needles are used, and all treatments are delivered within the safety standards of a private hospital environment.
Like any therapy, acupuncture can occasionally cause mild side effects. These may include:
These effects usually pass quickly and are not harmful. Serious complications are extremely rare. Before treatment, your physiotherapist will discuss your medical history to make sure acupuncture is suitable for you and safe to perform.
Most people find acupuncture to be virtually painless. The needles used are very fine, much thinner than those used for injections or blood tests.
You may feel a tiny prick as the needle enters the skin, but this usually lasts only a fraction of a second. Once in place, needles may cause a dull ache, tingling, or a sensation of warmth. These are normal responses and often an indication that the treatment is working.
Many people report feeling deeply relaxed during and after their sessions, with some even falling asleep while the needles are in place.
At The Priory Hospital, acupuncture is most commonly recommended as part of a physiotherapy treatment plan for conditions such as:
Your physiotherapist will carefully assess your symptoms and goals before recommending acupuncture. It may be used as a standalone treatment or combined with exercises, posture advice, and other therapies.
Acupuncture is not a direct weight-loss treatment. However, some people find it helpful as part of a broader lifestyle and wellness plan.
By reducing stress, improving sleep, and supporting overall balance in the body, acupuncture may indirectly help with weight management. For example, lower stress levels can reduce emotional eating, while pain relief can make it easier to stay active and exercise regularly.
If weight management is one of your goals, your physiotherapist can advise on safe, effective strategies that may include dietary advice, exercise plans, and supportive therapies alongside acupuncture.
Your first appointment will usually include:
Most people require a course of four to six sessions to see sustained improvement, though some notice results after just one or two treatments.
After your session, you may feel relaxed, slightly drowsy, or more energised depending on your body’s response. It’s usually best to avoid strenuous activity immediately afterwards and to drink plenty of water.
Your physiotherapist will review your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. They may recommend follow-up acupuncture sessions, physiotherapy exercises, or other therapies to support your recovery and maintain results.
Booking your appointment for acupuncture treatment with a physiotherapist at The Priory Hospital is straightforward. You can call our friendly team directly, or complete our enquiry form and we will get back to you promptly.
Our advisors will answer your questions, explain costs, and arrange an initial assessment with one of our physiotherapists at a time that suits you.
Reception: 0121 440 2323
Mon-Fri: 6am-9pm
Sat-Sun: 7am-6pm
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