What is it?
Acupuncture is a safe and proven procedure using very fine needles inserted into the body at precise points for a variety of therapeutic purposes.
There are two forms: Traditional Chinese and Modern Western. Insertion of acupuncture needles opens up neural pathways, increases blood flow, and produces neurochemicals known to reduce swelling and pain
At Active Life Podiatry, we use the Modern Western approach, also known as ‘Dry Needling ’ based on modern understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology.
Fine, filiform needles are inserted into taut bands of muscle or ‘trigger points’ that are found in muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints.
There are two kinds of trigger points: active and latent. Active trigger points are painful to the touch and are caused by infection, trauma, injury, tension, or exposure to cold. A latent trigger point is a sensitive spot with pain or discomfort which responds when pressed or squeezed.
Active trigger points, which can form in any part of the body, can often refer to pain in another part of the body some distance from the area of pain. Dry needling is a safe and effective way to release tension, pain caused by trigger points and scarring within muscles.
Who is it for?
Acupuncture or dry needling can be a great experience for those experiencing:
- Thigh pain
- Knee pain
- Arthritis
- Calf pain
- Night cramps
- Restless legs
- Shin splints
- Achilles tendinitis
- Heel pain
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel pain
- Neuromas
- Non-specific foot pain and scar tissue
Benefits
- Reduces swelling and pain
- Releases muscle pain and stiffness via trigger points
- Generally a pain-free to low-level pain procedure
Mark Barton, our Biomechanics Specialist, has extended scope experience in injection therapy, orthoses prescription, foot mobilisation techniques & acupuncture.
We are here to help you to #TakeSteps
- To an active recovery following injury
- To active, healthy feet for your family
- To a personal best
- To an Active Life