What is it?
Acupuncture point injection therapy encompasses the administration of minimal quantities of sterile water, saline or local anaesthetic solution by proficient acupuncturists. Similar to traditional acupuncture, delicate needles are carefully inserted into acupuncture points or trigger points located just beneath the skin or within muscles. This therapeutic approach, derived from the principles of acupuncture, has a longstanding history of utilisation among acupuncturists.
How does it Work?
Acupuncture point injection therapy operates through various mechanisms. The infusion of saline, sterile water or local anaesthetic into acupuncture points triggers a response similar to the insertion of acupuncture needles, with a key distinction: the injection bolus can sustain the activation of the acupuncture point for an extended duration, thereby amplifying the therapeutic impact.
Saline solution, characterised by isotonic properties mirroring the salt concentrations in our cells, blood, and interstitial fluid, plays a crucial role. In instances of chronic ailments or acute injuries, the interstitial fluid may become congested with inflammatory waste products from damaged tissue, impeding efficient nutrients and waste transfer between cells and the bloodstream. The injection of saline aims to enhance the quality of interstitial fluid, facilitating the efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products between cells and the bloodstream. Additionally, the pH-neutral nature of saline may exert specific effects on alkalising local connective tissues, potentially creating optimal conditions for the body’s self-healing mechanisms. Crucially, acupuncture point injection therapy does not merely mask or suppress pain; instead, it stimulates the body to address the root cause of pain through its inherent self-healing mechanisms.
How many treatments will I need?
Patients notice a positive response to their pain levels shortly after treatment. However, most conditions require several treatment sessions for the full benefits to take effect.
Does it Hurt?
Many individuals, particularly those uneasy about injections, find it pleasantly surprising how effortless and swift acupuncture point injections can be administered. In contrast to numerous injections in conventional medicine, it’s important to note that saline injections should not be equated with them. The needles employed are extremely fine, akin to acupuncture needles, making the injections generally painless or causing only mild discomfort.
What is injected?
Presently, the sole solutions employed in acupuncture point injection therapy are British Pharmacopoeia (BP)-compliant saline solution and BP-compliant sterile water. The inclusion of the letters BP in their designation indicates adherence to the British Pharmacopoeia, which serves as the benchmark for medicinal standards in Australia.