PODIATRIC ACUPUNCTURE

Podiatric Acupuncture
Podiatric Acupuncture is the use of acupuncture as a therapeutic tool by podiatrists
to treat diseases and pain of the lower limb. Acupuncture can be effective as the only
treatment used, or as the support or adjunct to other treatment in many medical and
surgical disorders.
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture can be used for its segmental, local and central effects on pain
management. It is also used for the management of several disorders that are not
necessarily pain related. Studies have shown that acupuncture stimulates one or
more of the body’s signalling systems, which can increase the rate of healing. This
may be sufficient to cure a condition/disease, or it may alleviate some of the
symptoms.
Can Acupuncture be used for my condition?
Acupuncture can help with joint pains such as in arthritis, musculoskeletal conditions
relating to the lower limb and associated pain. It has also been used to treat
problems such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, Morton's neuroma and leg
cramps. Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as the support
or adjunct to other podiatry treatment in many medical and surgical disorders.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments varies from person to person for complex or long-standing
conditions, one or two treatments a week for several weeks may be recommended.
For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance,
four sessions a year may be all that is necessary. Most people need between 3 - 8
treatments, and some people need to return for regular "top up" treatments every
few months.

Is Acupuncture safe? and what are the side effects?
Provided patients are under the care of a medical practitioner or a specialist
podiatrist, chiropractor or osteopath; all trained in western medicine, acupuncture
does seem to be a very safe treatment. Some patients may experience bruising, may
feel faint, or may feel very tired following treatment however, acupuncture has fewer
side effects than many drug treatments and most people experience no problems at
all. Some people can experience complete pain relief even after just 1 sessions. We
use stainless-steel single use disposable needles so there are no concerns
regarding AIDS, Hepatitis or blood-borne infections.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No. Acupuncture is more than just a placebo, it is used successfully by veterinarians
on cats, horses and other animals. These animals do not understand or believe in
the process that makes them better. Belief in the therapy is not a factor that will
influence the outcome of the treatment. A positive attitude toward wellness may
reinforce the effects of the treatment received, just as a negative attitude may hinder
the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment.
Why choose a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists work in close conjunction with GP's, Consultants and other health care
professionals. They study on a 3/4-year degree in western medicine before
embarking on further acupuncture training as a post-graduate level course which is
validated by the College of Podiatry.
Podiatrists are bound by a strict professional and ethical code.

Overview
 Acupuncture is safe & virtually painless.
 Acupuncture works naturally with little or no side effects.
 Acupuncture stimulates the body to help itself
 Podiatrists work closely with your GP.
 To compliment a wide scope of practice many podiatrists now use
acupuncture.
 We use single use stainless steel disposable needles.