Acupuncture is an effective pain and stress relief therapy.  It is used to alleviate a wide range of conditions, including chronic and acute pain, sports injuries, and stress related conditions.  Acupuncture complements other healthcare interventions, supports exercise and self-care programs.

Acupuncture has been used for centuries to:
  • Alleviate pain
  • Reduce inflammation and increase circulation
  • Improve flexibility and range of motion
  • Promote healing of tissues and recovery from injuries
  • Reduce stress and improve overall well-being
Chronic & Acute Pain Relief
Our practitioners utilize their understanding of body mechanics, muscle tension patterns, trigger points, and neural anatomy to help you feel better, refine your body sense, move easier, and enhance your overall well-being.  We combine modern techniques with experienced insights to tailor our treatments to your individual needs and goals.
Pain conditions commonly treated with acupuncture:
  • Spinal & Pelvic Issues:
    • Spine, back, and neck pain
    • Pelvic alignment & pain
    • Chronic postural syndrome
  • Upper Limb Disorders:
    • Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues
    • Tennis and golfer’s elbow
    • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other wrist/hand pains
  • Lower Limb Disorders:
    • Hip pain, impingement, and knee syndromes
    • Sciatica, calf pain, and shin splints
    • Achilles tendinopathy and plantar issues
  • Other Painful Conditions:
    • Headaches, migraines, jaw and facial pain
    • General muscle tightness, myofascial pain
    • ​Repetitive strain injuries
    • Tendinopathy, bursitis, and fibromyalgia
    • Digestive or gynecological (abdominal) discomfort
Stress Relief
Acupuncture can help alleviate stress-related conditions by promoting relaxation, balancing the nervous system, and regulating hormones, leading to a sense of calmness and improved well-being.  Many traditional acupuncture points are located near important neuroanatomical pathways (such as the trigeminal and vagus nerve) which when stimulated help to relax and regulate the nervous system, calm the mind and promote a more balanced and regulated internal environment.  
Stress related conditions commonly treated with acupuncture:
  • anxiety & depression
  • insomnia
  • headaches & migraines
  • fatigue​
  • digestive issues
  • breathing issues
  • post-traumatic stress
  • women's health issues
Pregnancy:
Acupuncture can assist with conditions during pregnancy, such as morning sickness, and is an effective therapy for labour preparation.
Method:
Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into specific tissue structures and areas (points) on the body. 
Needle Sensation:
When acupuncture needles are inserted usually there is little or no sensation, however your practitioner may manipulate the needle to elicit a tissue change or release.  For a trigger point release, there may be a distending, radiating sensation, or the feeling of a twitch as a tight and irritable band of muscle fibers release.  There are various techniques which are chosen depending on the needs and goals of the client.
Safety:
Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by trained, qualified, and registered practitioners to ensure proper technique, clinical experience, and an educated anatomical understanding.  Rare adverse effects of acupuncture may include temporary mild soreness or a painless bruising left at the needle insertion site.  Please consult your practitioner if you have any questions or concerns.
Combining with other Treatment Modalities:
​​Needles may be used in combination with other treatment techniques such as cupping, moxibustion (deep heat), and various hands-on manual therapy and massage techniques as appropriate.

To learn more about myofascial release, click here.
ACC Information:
Our Acupuncturists are registered ACC health providers.  Click here for more information.
Acupuncturists can accept active existing ACC claims to treat the relevant covered injuries.  For new injuries, an ​acupuncturists cannot lodge a new injury claim for you.  You can lodge an ACC claim with your GP, physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor, etc. Once a claim is lodged and accepted, an acupuncturist can then accept that claim for treatment.  The coverage for acupuncture lasts for 12 weeks from the date of your first session for that claim.

Claims over 1 year since the date of injury are expired.  If you want to use an expired claim, please discuss this with your acupuncturist, they will assess your case to see if an extension is possible.  These are generally cases with a mental injury, serious injury, and those who’ve recently had surgery.  Be aware that the initial appointment would not be covered by ACC and will be billed private.
Traditional & Modern Acupuncture:
Our acupuncture practitioners are trained in both traditional techniques and modern trigger point dry needling, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pain management and muscle health. Additionally, our method enhances treatment efficacy by incorporating an understanding of neuroanatomical pathways within the body.  

To learn more about trigger point needling specifically, watch the following video:​​​​​
Full Video from Ozarks Healthcare
Further Reading:
Find out more on our Research & Learning Hub page.
The practice of acupuncture is regulated in New Zealand under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance (HPCA) Act 2003.

Acupuncturists

Claire Rees
Joe Liguori