Acupuncture and Dry Needling

The type of acupuncture used at Podia-Clinic is Western Medical and not Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture.

Using very fine needles placed into quite specific areas the intended use is to stimulate the nervous system in such a way as to reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort, which in turn can reduce pain and improve function of muscles and joints. It is considered this occurs because the placing of the needles stimulate the body to release natural pain relieving chemicals known as endorphins.

Dry needling uses the same type of needles which are often placed into particularly stiff and sore tight spots within a muscle (sometimes called Trigger Points). This can help reduce tightness/stiffness in that area, so allowing the muscle to work better.

Generally both are painless but a little discomfort can sometimes be felt. Very occasionally a person can feel light headed or a sense of tingling that may travel down the leg as well as the sensation of hot and cold in an area. Both podiatric acupuncture and dry needling tend to be used in conjunction with other treatments rather than on their own.

As an MSK podiatrist Ian is trained in podiatric acupuncture and dry needling.