Both acupuncture and acupressure are forms of traditional Chinese medical practice, each focussing on the concept of Qi (pronounced ‘chi’). Qi is considered to be the body’s life force energy, flowing through pathways that connect the thousands of acupuncture points throughout the body. Research has linked both these types of treatment with various health benefits.
While there are plenty of similarities shared, there are also several key differences. In this blog, we’ll explain all the essential information you need to know about both acupuncture and acupressure, as well as how to know which one may be the right choice for your health.
For personalised advice, contact our team at Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic today.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture therapy involves the use of extremely thin, sterile, metallic needles. These needles are inserted into the skin over key points in the body. Typically, patients feel little more than a slight prick at needle sites. The number of insertion points depends on the patient and the unique condition they’re dealing with, as well as the number of sessions needed to feel improvements and the length of time that needles will need to remain in the body.
Acupuncture needles are applied in areas that can help stimulate the energy pathways in the body to help promote healing and improved health. Some health practitioners believe that acupuncture can help stimulate the brain, spinal cord, blood flow, and central nervous system. It is important to note that acupuncture is typically only recommended as one part of a larger treatment plan.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Some healthcare practitioners believe that acupuncture therapy can stimulate the body’s autonomic nervous system. The treatment can help the body release key chemicals needed to promote healing and pain relief, and may also be able to help decrease feelings of stress and tension throughout the body. This can help to impact cardiovascular health, promote a healthier immune system, and reduce inflammation or pain. Other benefits of acupuncture care can include:
- Improved digestion
- Treatment for chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis
- Reduced musculoskeletal pain
- Relief for headache and migraine systems
- Boosted healing processes
- Better overall physical and mental well-being
What is Acupressure?
While acupressure also derives from ancient Chinese practices and targets the same points in the body to promote better energy flow, there are no needles involved. Acupressure is a form of massage, pressing on the acupuncture points to free the flow of energy and encourage movement throughout the body.
The theory and technique are similar to acupuncture, but rather than using needles to target the points, fingers are used instead. As pressure is applied, there may be slight tenderness or pain, but it may be able to help relieve pain once the points are massaged.
Benefits of Acupressure
There has not been extensive research done into the benefits of acupressure particularly not within the world of Western medicine. That said, there certainly have been some, and a few benefits have been noted across patients opting for the treatment. Acupressure can be helpful with symptoms of nausea and vomiting, particularly following surgery or other invasive medical procedures, and with pain reduction.
It is worth noting that acupressure should always be performed by a licensed and accredited practitioner, and should not be used as the sole treatment for serious illnesses or chronic conditions.
Book an Appointment at NDPE for Acupressure and Acupuncture Services in West Ryde
Nowadays, modern treatment comes in all shapes and sizes. Acupuncture and acupressure therapies are just a couple of the available options, and the first step to finding the best treatment for you is to discuss your symptoms with an experienced physio.
Here at Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, our team can help recommend and provide a range of different treatments and therapies. Just one of the treatment methods we can offer at our West Ryde clinic is acupuncture. If you believe that you have an injury or chronic condition that may benefit from acupuncture treatment, then our friendly team would love to help guide your decision-making process. Book an appointment today to learn more about whether acupuncture could be right for you.
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