What is acupuncture?
According to the definition given by the Association des acupuncteurs du Québec:
The practice of acupuncture consists of any act of stimulation, usually by means of needles, of certain specific sites of the skin, mucous membranes or subcutaneous tissues of the human body in order to improve health or to relieve pain.
To achieve these goals, the acupuncturist may also use other means of stimulation such as heat (moxibustion), pressure (cups, guasha, acupressure, tuina massage), the addition of electrical stimulation (electro-acupuncture) or a light beam (soft laser).
The selection of points and methods of stimulation is determined by the acupuncturist and is based on the client’s health status, the location of pain and symptoms, palpation of the involved zones and meridians, as well as the so-called “energetic” assessment based on the review of signs and symptoms according to the paradigms of traditional Chinese medicine.
Distinction between acupuncture and physiotherapy puncture with dry needles
Although both approaches use the same type of needles, which are sterile, dry, and single-use, there are also fundamental differences between them.
Based on the principles of Chinese medicine, acupuncturists stimulate different points, connected by meridians, to have a systemic effect on different organs or systems (known as CHI in Chinese medicine). This may include the use of tools other than needles, such as cupping or Gua Sha. The reasons for seeking acupuncture treatment vary greatly.
Physiotherapy puncture with dry needles is a technique used by physical therapists to mainly influence pain and the healing process locally in a specific area. The needles are therefore inserted more locally in the painful or problematic area. This technique is part of a broader set of techniques and is used in addition to other physiotherapy modalities in the usual treatment plan.
In summary, keep in mind that the equipment is the same, but the punctures and their effects are not at all the same! At Cigonia, acupuncturists and physiotherapists work together and can address the same problem from several angles, thus maximizing your therapeutic options!
Consult the acupuncture section of our FAQ in order to be well prepared for your first acupuncture visit. You will also find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this type of treatment.
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