Restore Balance. Relieve Pain. Promote Natural Healing
Acupuncture Physiotherapy is a safe, evidence-based treatment used to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and enhance the body’s natural healing process. At Euro Physical Therapy, acupuncture is performed by licensed physiotherapists as part of a comprehensive musculoskeletal rehabilitation plan.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or experiencing persistent muscle tightness, acupuncture can help improve function and accelerate recovery.
What Is Acupuncture in Physiotherapy?
Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and has been integrated into modern physiotherapy practice. It involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to:
✔ Reduce pain
✔ Relax tight muscles
✔ Improve circulation
✔ Stimulate natural healing
✔ Support overall recovery
In physiotherapy, acupuncture is primarily used for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, not internal medical disorders.
What to Expect During Your Session
Before Treatment:
Your physiotherapist will:
Review your medical history
Assess posture, movement, and pain
Explain the procedure
Answer any questions
During treatment:
Fine, sterile needles are gently inserted
Needles remain in place for 10–25 minutes
You may feel mild warmth, tingling, or relaxation
After treatment:
You may feel relaxed or energized
Mild soreness may occur (similar to post-exercise soreness)
After-care advice will be provided
Acupuncture is often combined with exercise therapy or manual therapy for optimal results.
Are There Any Risk ?
Acupuncture and dry needling are considered safe and low-risk treatments when performed by trained and licensed physiotherapists. At Euro Physical Therapy, all procedures follow professional physiotherapy standards, infection control protocols, and safety guidelines.
Before starting treatment, your physiotherapist will carefully review your medical history and explain all potential risks to ensure the procedure is appropriate for you.
Rare but Serious Risks
Although uncommon, the following complications are possible:
- Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
This is a very rare complication that can occur if a needle is inserted too deeply in the chest or upper back area. Symptoms may include shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Proper training and anatomical knowledge significantly reduce this risk.
- Infection
Because sterile, single-use needles are always used, infection risk is extremely low. However, like any procedure that breaks the skin, infection is a potential risk. - Nerve Irritation or Injury
Temporary nerve irritation may cause tingling, numbness, or mild shooting sensations. Permanent nerve injury is extremely rare. - Internal Organ Injury
Very rare and typically associated with improper technique. Licensed physiotherapists are trained to avoid sensitive anatomical structures. - Needle Breakage
Modern acupuncture needles are flexible and designed to prevent breakage. This complication is extremely uncommon.
Common and Mild Side Effects
Most side effects are minor and temporary. These may include:
Mild soreness at the needle site
Small bruising or minor bleeding
Temporary muscle ache (similar to post-exercise soreness)
Fatigue or drowsiness
Lightheadedness (especially during first session)
Temporary increase in symptoms before improvement
These effects usually resolve within 24–48 hours.
Who Should Inform Their Physiotherapist Before Treatment?
To ensure safety, please inform your physiotherapist if you:
Are pregnant
Have a bleeding disorder
Are taking blood-thinning medications
Have a pacemaker (especially relevant for electro-acupuncture)
Have a compromised immune system
Have a fear of needles or history of fainting
Your physiotherapist may modify the technique or recommend alternative treatment options if needed.
Our Commitment to Safety
At Euro Physical Therapy:
✔ Only licensed physiotherapists perform needling treatments
✔ Sterile, single-use needles are used
✔ Strict hygiene and infection control protocols are followed
✔ Informed consent is obtained before treatment
✔ Continuous monitoring ensures patient comfort and safety
Our priority is to deliver effective pain relief while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Book Your Appointment Today
Pain should not limit your daily life. Whether you are experiencing chronic muscle tension, recovering from a sports injury, or dealing with persistent joint pain, our experienced physiotherapists are here to help.
At Euro Physical Therapy, we provide safe, personalized Acupuncture and Dry Needling treatments designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and support long-term recovery.
📞 Call Euro Physical Therapy at 403-327-6466 OR
📍 Visit us in clinic 1502 9 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB
🌐 Book online: Click Here