Acupuncture as a treatment modality, has been around a long time with a lot of research into the neuro-chemical pain modulating pathways. There are many approaches in both application and reasoning behind Acupuncture treatment. For example, ear Acupuncture (auricular), electro Acupuncture, and DNA Acupuncture (Distal Needling Acupuncture) where needles are inserted into points on the body away from, and often on the opposite side to, the painful site.

As a Physiotherapist, I know that pain control is the gateway to allow joint mobility and muscle strengthening interventions to take place, thus improving function.

As a Physiotherapist Acupuncturist, I have found DNA Acupuncture to give more immediate results in terms of symptomatic ease thus allowing for referral to hydrotherapy, rheumatology exercise class, etc.

Good patient selection with consideration of any contraindications by both the referring clinician and Acupuncturist is vital as is the availability of regular appointments where an appropriate number of treatments can be administered to truly assess outcomes.

Sarvesh Tah
Chartered Physiotherapist Acupuncturist
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
Therapy Department
Russells Hall Hospital
Pensnett Road
Dudley
West Midlands, DY1 2HQ