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Acupuncture within physiotherapy is implemented in accordance with the latest clinical and research evidence. Originally a form of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific places on your body - known as acupuncture points - which are located in the skin and underlying tissues.
There are over 500 acupuncture points on the body; these are places that are thought to affect the way that your organs and tissues function.
Acupuncture works by encouraging the body to release natural pain-killing substances (endorphins), thereby easing your symptoms of pain and discomfort.
Physiotherapists may also use 'Trigger Point' Acupuncture, this can be used to facilitate relaxation in specific muscles following trauma or injury, in this scenario, needles are placed directly into the affected muscles until they relax. Acupuncture is often used in combination with other physiotherapy treatments such as manual therapy or exercises, although it can also be effective on its own. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve a variety of symptoms including headaches and migraines, nausea, and musculoskeletal conditions.
Studies suggest that acupuncture can help ease the symptoms of:
- Low back pain
- Headaches/Migraine
- Chronic pain (for example in your back or shoulder)
- Neck pain
- Post-operative pain
- Nausea (particularly chemotherapy-induced nausea)
Chartered physiotherapists use acupuncture to relieve pain and other symptoms and are in a unique position of being able to combine acupuncture with other treatment methods such as exercises, manual therapy and stretching. This combined approach is more likely to lead to successful rehabilitation. It is a very safe form of treatment, which has few side effects, or complications, which your physiotherapist will discuss with you as part of your initial assessment.
The cost of acupuncture will depend on a variety of factors, including your condition and how quickly you respond to treatment. On average a course of acupuncture is between 4-6 sessions although positive results may be seen in fewer sessions. Following your initial consultation the physiotherapist will be able to advise you how many sessions they would expect would be required based on your condition.
An initial assessment with a physiotherapist at Circle Health Group starts from £64.*
Acupuncture as part of physiotherapy treatment is covered by most medical insurance policies, but please check with your insurer first.
*This is a starting price for patients paying for their own treatment. The exact price will be confirmed at the time of booking.
At Circle Health Group, you will be treated by one of our experienced physiotherapists who has undertaken additional training to be able to provide acupuncture. All our physiotherapists are registered with the Health and Professional Council (HCPC) and practice according to the UK standards for acupuncture.
You will initially be asked a series of questions regarding your general health, your symptoms and to check that acupuncture would be suitable for you. For treatment, you will normally be asked to sit or lie down, you will be placed in a comfortable position for you to relax but also allow access to the acupuncture points to be used.
Our physiotherapists use a number of sterile and disposable ultra-fine needles. The number of needles will vary depending on your condition, however in the first session, only a few needles may be used to assess your sensitivity to acupuncture. You may feel a tingling sensation or a dull ache when the needles are inserted, but it should only be a temporary discomfort. They will then be left in place for between five minutes and half an hour. The acupuncture needles are disposed of immediately after use.
Your physiotherapist will be on hand to monitor your response to treatment and make any adjustments required. For more information, and if you have any queries about the treatment, speak to your physiotherapist.
There are only a few instances where acupuncture treatment requires caution or should not be used. Please let your physiotherapist know:
If you are diagnosed with:
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Heart condition
- If you have a pacemaker or may be pregnant
- If you are currently taking
- Anticoagulants
- Steroids
- If you are frightened of needles
Your physiotherapist will complete a checklist with you prior to commencing treatment.
What are the possible complications of acupuncture?
- Soreness, bleeding and bruising
- The symptoms of your condition, or illness, may get worse for a few hours after treatment
- Sweating, dizziness or feeling faint after treatment, but this should only last for a few hours after treatment
- Serious complications, such as infection, and damaged organs, or tissue, are extremely rare
Your physiotherapist will discuss any specific risks prior to your treatment. Be sure to ask them if you have any specific questions.
Acupuncture can affect everyone differently. You may find you feel more relaxed or tired for a few hours after treatment, or you may feel more alert and energised.
Some people find the symptoms of their condition or illness temporarily get worse after an initial treatment or they may feel slightly faint.
To reduce the risk of feeling faint, it is advisable to make sure you have eaten something in the two hours before your appointment and ensure you eat normal regular meals.
Extensive experience
Our physiotherapists undertake specialised training in acupuncture. They are able to use it alongside other treatments to offer you a range of options to manage your condition successfully.
Fast access to private treatment
You don't need to wait for a referral from your GP to access our acupuncture service. Arrange your appointment directly with us at your convenience.
Locations throughout the UK
With over 50 hospitals across England, Scotland and Wales, patients all over the country can have fast access to private acupuncture treatment near them.
You can also benefit from:
- Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule
- The freedom to choose your hospital
- Bespoke treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end
- Affordable, fixed-price packages
- Flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your care
If you want to know more about acupuncture and find out if it's the right treatment for you, call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle physiotherapy team in June 2023. Next review due June 2026.
- What is acupuncture, Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists
- Acupuncture, Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
