What is Orthopaedic Acupuncture?
Musculoskeletal conditions
Orthopaedic acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture that is used to treat musculoskeletal conditions. It combines the principles of traditional Chinese acupuncture with a deep understanding of Western anatomy and physiology. This approach allows the acupuncturist to identify and target specific motor points within the body, which can help to release tension, reduce pain, and improve overall musculoskeletal function.
Motor points are areas within the body where the motor nerve enters the muscle. Stimulating these points with acupuncture needles can help to activate the muscle, release tension, and promote healing. Motor points are often located near acupuncture points, but they are distinct in that they are more precise and specific in their location. By targeting motor points, orthopaedic acupuncture can help to improve the function of specific muscles, which can in turn improve overall musculoskeletal function.
Electro-acupuncture is another technique that is often used in orthopaedic acupuncture. This involves the use of electrical stimulation in combination with acupuncture needles. The electrical stimulation can help to increase the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as provide additional pain relief.
Orthopaedic acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, knee pain, and more. It can also be used to treat sports injuries and other types of musculoskeletal trauma.
Studies have shown that orthopaedic acupuncture can be an effective treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. For example, a study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that orthopaedic acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain (1). Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that electro-acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (2).
In conclusion, orthopaedic acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture that is used to treat musculoskeletal conditions. It combines the principles of traditional Chinese acupuncture with a deep understanding of Western anatomy and physiology. By targeting specific motor points within the body, orthopaedic acupuncture can help to release tension, reduce pain, and improve overall musculoskeletal function. Electro-acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with acupuncture needles to provide additional pain relief and improve treatment effectiveness. If you are suffering from a musculoskeletal condition, orthopaedic acupuncture may be a safe and effective treatment option for you.
References:
Fu LM, Li JT, Wu WS. Randomized controlled trials of acupuncture for neck pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(2):133-145. doi:10.1089/acm.2008.0355
Wang F, Meng H, Yu J, et al. The effectiveness of electroacupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019;98(27):e16377. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000016377
