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Acupuncture in Whiteley

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Acupuncture
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Evidence-Based Acupuncture for Pain Relief

A Clinical Approach to Traditional Healing

Acupuncture involves the precise insertion of extremely fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system. When delivered by a trained healthcare professional, it is a powerful tool for managing persistent pain, particularly when other treatments have offered only limited relief.

At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, our acupuncture service is lead by Diane Shaw, a Chartered Physiotherapist with extensive experience in Western Medical Acupuncture. This means your treatment is always informed by a thorough musculoskeletal assessment. We don’t just “treat the pain”; we use acupuncture as a clinical gateway to help you move better and recover faster.

Clinical research and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) support the use of acupuncture for several chronic conditions, including:

  • Chronic Tension-Type Headaches: Reducing the frequency and intensity of “band-like” head pain.
  • Migraines: Helping to manage the physical triggers of migraine episodes.
  • Chronic Primary Pain: Addressing long-term discomfort in the neck, back, or joints.
  • Postoperative Pain: Helping to “settle” the nervous system following surgery.
  • Joint & Muscle Sensitivity: Calming overactive pain signals in stubborn musculoskeletal injuries.
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How Acupuncture Works

Medical acupuncture works by “tuning” the body’s natural pharmacy. The insertion of the needles triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin—the body’s natural pain-relievers—while also improving local blood flow to the tissues.

The needles are significantly thinner than those used for injections or blood tests. Most patients describe a mild tingling or a dull “heavy” ache rather than a sharp pain.

It helps to desensitise an overactive nervous system, making it easier for you to engage with your physiotherapy exercises without being limited by high pain levels.

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Your Treatment Journey

At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we prioritise your comfort and safety. We use only single-use, sterile needles and follow strict clinical hygiene standards.

  • The Initial Assessment: Your first session lasts 45 minutes. This includes a full history of your pain and a physical screen to ensure acupuncture is a safe and appropriate choice for you.
  • The Treatment: Subsequent sessions are 30 minutes. You will usually be asked to lie or sit in a comfortable position while the needles remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • What to wear: Wear loose clothing that allows easy access to your back, legs, or arms.
  • Aftercare: Most patients feel very relaxed or even slightly sleepy after treatment. We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise immediately after your session to allow the effects to settle.

We believe in realistic expectations. Acupuncture is a cumulative therapy, meaning its effects tend to build up over time.

Clinical Note: While some patients feel an “instant” change, acupuncture is rarely a “one-hit” fix for chronic issues.

Most clinical evidence suggests that a course of six to eight sessions yields the best long-term results for chronic pain and headaches. We view acupuncture as a “window of opportunity”—it reduces your pain so that you can perform the strengthening and mobility work necessary for a permanent recovery. We will be honest with you after your first few sessions about whether your body is responding as expected.

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Acupuncture

  • Diane Shaw – Physiotherapist, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy (CSP: 49658 | HCPC: PH41958)

Diane is a chartered physiotherapist registered with both the HCPC and CSP.

  • Initial Assessment: £79 / 45 minutes
  • Follow-Up Session: £59 / 30 minutes
  • Block Booking: £319 for 6 sessions

Acupuncture is not always covered by health insurance. Please check with your insurer before booking if you plan to make a claim.

To book, call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.

Our clinic is at Gull Coppice, Yew Tree Drive, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7LS, close to Whiteley Community Centre and Whiteley Primary School. We serve patients from Whiteley, Fareham, Segensworth, Swanwick, Titchfield, Sarisbury, and Burridge.

Opening hours: Mon 8.30-5.00 / Tue 8.30-8.00 / Wed 8.30-8.00 / Thu 8.30-8.00 / Fri 8.30-6.00

Phone: 01489 569888

Email: info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, when provided by a trained healthcare professional using sterile, single-use needles. At our clinic, acupuncture is delivered by a HCPC-registered and CSP-registered physiotherapist.
Most patients experience little to no pain. The needles are extremely fine, and any sensation is usually described as a mild tingling or dull ache.
This varies depending on your condition. Many patients begin to notice improvements within three to six sessions. Your physiotherapist will review your progress and advise.
Absolutely. Acupuncture often works best as part of a broader treatment plan that includes manual therapy and exercise. Your physiotherapist can integrate both approaches within your sessions.
Acupuncture is not always covered by health insurance. Please check with your insurer before booking if you plan to make a claim.
NICE guidelines support acupuncture as a treatment option for chronic tension-type headaches and chronic primary pain.
Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. You may experience slight bruising, temporary drowsiness, or a feeling of deep relaxation after treatment.
You may need to expose the area being treated. Wear loose clothing and your physiotherapist will ensure your comfort and dignity throughout.
Most patients are fine to drive. Occasionally, people feel deeply relaxed or slightly light-headed afterwards, so allow a few minutes to settle before leaving.

Call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.

Ready to Get Started?

Struggling with chronic pain or persistent headaches? Acupuncture could help. Book your initial assessment by calling 01489 569888.

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