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Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific places on the body called acupuncture points. It is used at West-Fit Physiotherapy for treatment of acute and chronic pain, muscle spasm, tenderness and headaches. West-Fit uses single-use disposable needles.

Acupuncture revolves around the Eastern concept of Qi energy fields that run through the body on invisible meridians which are pathways common to anatomy and measurements of cuns. Cuns are measurements which are relation to a persons individual and unique body size. The Mayo Clinic says some studies suggest that acupuncture can help diminish pain and may even reduce nausea reduced by chemotherapy.

Each acupuncture point lies within the skin and muscle region usually close to the location of pain but sometimes quite distant to the pain. The needles may be stimulated by hand or with electrical stimulation. There may be a dull ache which usually fades quickly. The entire procedure should not be painful.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s neuroendocrine system to produce its own natural pain relieving chemicals called “endorphins”. Endorphins help the body to heal itself.

Expectations?

The response to acupuncture varies. Some people experience immediate pain relief, others gradual relief and some no relief. Your physiotherapist will ask you to monitor your response to determine if the treatment has been successful for you. Each session lasts 15 – 30 minutes. The number of sessions required depends on the problem being treated. Acupuncture may be used alone or part of the physiotherapy program. People with pace-makers or women in early pregnancy should not have acupuncture. If you had rheumatic fever in the past, please inform the therapist.

Acupuncture is a very safe technique but occasionally some patients may experience minor bruising, nausea, dizziness or temporary aggravation of symptoms.

What To Do Before An Acupuncture Treatment

1. Have a light meal

2. Take no alcohol, caffeine, barbiturate or tranquilizer for four hours before treatment. Take pain medication as necessary. Do not smoke tobacco for one hour before a treatment.

3. Continue any other medication as prescribed by your doctor.

4. Be well rested, if possible.

What To Do After An Acupuncture Treatment

1. Rest for two hours after you get home, if possible.

2. If treatment is for a painful condition, avoid strenuous activity for two days after treatment, even if you are pain free.

3. Take pain pills or other medication as directed by your doctor, keep a record of amount taken. Do not take any alcohol or caffeine for two hours after treatment. Do not smoke tobacco for one hour after a treatment.

4. Some people obtain relief immediately, some notice improvement after a few hours. Some require several treatments before responding. Some do not respond.

5. Occasionally symptoms become worse before they improve. This usually only lasts 1 – 2 days.

6. The number of treatments required varies with each person and condition.

FAE (FCE) Assessments

The FAE (Functional Abilities Evaluation) is an objective, comprehensive, physical test used in determining a person’s ability to perform demands of work and home. Both abilities and limitations can be assessed with this method and it plays a big role in determining whether someone is able to return to work following an accident or injury or if continued rehab is needed. A written report is provided that can be submitted to your employer or insurance provider.

Computer Ergonomics

Sitting at a computer for long periods of time can cause aches and pain that are felt in the neck, shoulder, upper and lower back, wrist and elbow joints. In some cases, the nerves to the hand become compressed causing weakness and/or tingling. These symptoms can occur in the onset of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), which may include damage to the tendons, muscles, nerves and other soft tissues from related physical movements over time.

One of the factors that contribute to the onset of RSI includes office set up. A poorly designed work station or one that does not fit you well can contribute to the onset of RSI (reaching for the mouse or keyboard too high or low, wrists extended during keyboarding.  We provide onsite Computer Ergonomic Set-up Analysis at which we measure and analyse all aspects including chair, lighting, video and desk set-up in relation to the stations user. We then provide recommendations on how to improve it.