A Sceptic Converted. (Acupuncture)

Member Name: pishton

Product:	Acupuncture
Date:	04/07/00 (87 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: No drugs, seems to work.

Disadvantages: None, really, you've nothing to lose from it.

My views on complementary medicine, vegetarians and so on are usually very negative and scornful; until recently.

I injured my ankle fell running. I've done it before and will again, no doubt. The hospital sent me for some physio, nothing unusual here. Then my physiotherapist suggested some acupuncture. He explained that he'd had good results on simmilar injuries and said that I had nothing to lose by trying it. Although he couldn't provide me with any scientific evidence for his success I decided to give it a go. The fact that he looked quite a normal sort of bloke (no dreadlocks, piercings and no trace of incense) may have helped me decide to try it.

The needles went in pretty painlessly. It stung a bit when he gave them a twist after five minutes but there was nothing to whine about. I went home feeling no immediate effect. Two hours later I felt very tired but totally relaxed. The swelling in my ankle had reduced dramatically, as had the pain.

After a few more sessions The ankle is on the mend, much faster than usual.

I should mention that my physio used all the usual physio-terrorist toys such as ultrasound, laser therapy and massage. No doubt these had an effect too.

I remain totally baffled as to how a little needle in my right knee can effect my left ankle. I am, however, reasonably sure that the acupuncture had some good effects.

In future I shall try to soften my stance towards Eastern medicine and the starnge people who practice it.

Summary: