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Acupuncture & IMS
Home | Physiotherapy | Acupuncture & IMS

Acupuncture & IMS

All our physiotherapists are qualified members of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and use Western Medical Acupuncture as a treatment option for musculoskeletal conditions.

Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is based on energy flow and meridians, Western Medical Acupuncture is grounded in modern medical principles. It focuses on pain relief, nerve modulation, and calming an overactive nervous system. The insertion of fine needles into specific points triggers an immediate local response—increased blood flow, reduced nerve sensitivity, and pain modulation. This often presents as a slight redness around the needle and is a sign of enhanced circulation and healing.

Some patients experience immediate relief, while others notice benefits 2-3 days post-treatment due to the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, as part of the healing process.

Your physiotherapist will explain the process in detail and tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective approach to pain management and rehabilitation.

Another common form of Acupuncture we use is called Dry Needling. This a form of Western Medical Acupuncture that is based around releasing tight muscles, rather than purely for pain relief and stimulating the healing processes. Here, a needle is inserted into the muscle and gently stimulated up and down. This can cause a small twitch in the muscle, which is the muscle contracting, but then causing it to release, causing an immediate reduction in muscle tone. The needle only stays in the muscle for a few seconds and the whole process is extremely quick and not painful.

IMS, or Intra-Muscular Stimulation is a third type of Western Medical Acupuncture we use and is a combination of standard Acupuncture and Dry needling. This is most commonly used for spinal conditions and is extremely effective for longer-term issues and nerve-related pain such as sciatica. A small metal plunger is used to direct and control the needle accurately to target the slightly deeper muscles in the spine. Like Dry Needling, the needle is stimulated briefly. This is done on various points up and down the length of the area affected in the spine, doesn’t take long at all and is not painful.

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“Back in January 2023 I ruptured my achilles tendon and have since needed soft tissue therapy towards the latter end of my recovery. Every time I touch base with

Tom I feel assured and even more motivated to get back into competition level fitness.

With the variety of resources available at Varney Green Physiotherapy I have strong belief that I will make an efficient and effective return.“

M.S. - Harlow

“I have been having physiotherapy sessions with Aimee after I was hit by a reversing car which resulted in my dominant arm being very badly injured. Aimee is very professional, knowledgeable and confident. She is always cheerful and friendly.

She has supported me both physically and mentally which has helped me to cope through this dark period of my life. I will always be indebted to Aimee. I have recommended her to all my friends. Thank you .”

T.S. - Puckeridge

“I damaged my knee playing football and was recommended to see Varney Green Physiotherapy. This was the best choice I made as Tom diagnosed me and started treatment straight away.

Within 6 weeks I was back to full strength. I would also like to thank Aimee who made me feel comfortable and made all sessions enjoyable.”

C.C. - Harlow

“Harriet is a wonderful physiotherapist and did an amazing job locating my problem and giving me solutions, exercises and a clear explanation to what was going on. I came away with less pain and very happy. Thank you very much!”

E.T-Y. - Puckeridge

“I came to Steve with quite a bad hamstring tear, a recurring problem, we started off with some treatment and then straight into strengthening the muscle. I saw a ridiculous amount of progress from when I started to the day I left.

I had my first football game back yesterday and I have never felt stronger and fitter than yesterday and no injuries!

I must also say Steve was one of the nicest people I have met a fantastic character and personality. Couldn’t be happier with my experience.”

T.T. - Harlow

I’ve suffered from intense migraine attacks for 20 years. Tom has changed this, I’ve gone from at least one migraine every fortnight to being migraine free for over three months. It’s a game changer!!

J.R. - Harlow

“I’ve been seen by Matt a few times over the past few weeks, and it’s really been the kind of deep tissue massage I’m after. I won’t say it’s relaxing, but it certainly has helped reduce those ‘knots’ of tense muscles that generate low level discomfort that you just end up living with.

You might end up swearing while he’s doing it, but you’ll certainly feel the benefit!

Highly recommended for those that are looking to bust those knots!”

K.F. - Harlow and Puckeridge