Acupunture

The Ottawa Physiotherapy and Sport Clinics offer medical acupuncture to patients in Ottawa and the surrounding areas. Acupuncture has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years, and has gained recognition and use in the western world over the past several decades. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles through the skin and tissues at specific points typically along what are called 'meridians' or 'pathways'. These pathways are believed to be energy channels through which energy flows through the body. Acupuncture points were mapped by the Chinese centuries ago, however there has been research performed by several Canadian doctors who have identified a correlation of acupuncture points and known neural structures within the musculoskeletal system.

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by restoring the normal energy balance within the body therefore allowing natural healing to occur. The insertion of the fine needle into the tissues also releases endorphins. Endorphins are made by the body and are one of the body's own natural pain relieving chemicals. These endorphins block the passage of pain signals to the brain and therefore help to relieve or reduce pain within the body. When pain is reduced, the body can then restore normal biochemical balance and promote healing.

Do Physiotherapists have to be certified to perform Acupuncture?

The physiotherapists who perform Acupuncture at the Barrhaven physiotherapy, Westboro physiotherapy and Orleans physiotherapy locations are certified through the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute.