Acupuncture and dry needling, as part of your physio.
Used by our trained physios alongside exercise to help ease pain and muscle tension.
What we use it for
Acupuncture can help ease pain for some people. It works best as one part of a treatment plan that also gets you moving and strengthening.
Tight, painful muscles
Trigger points and muscle tension that are stopping you moving freely.
Neck and back pain
To settle pain so you can get on with your exercises and normal life.
Tendon and joint pain
Alongside a loading programme for problems like tennis elbow or a sore knee.
Tension headaches
Where neck and shoulder tension is part of the problem.
Your physio will only suggest acupuncture if they think it will help, and it’s always your choice.
What to expect
- Assessment firstYour physio works out what’s going on before deciding whether acupuncture fits your plan.
- Very fine needlesSterile, single-use needles, much finer than the ones used for injections or blood tests.
- A dull ache, not sharp painMost people feel a brief prick, then a dull ache or tingle. Tell us if anything feels wrong.
- Part of your treatmentAcupuncture is used within your physio appointment, alongside exercise and advice, not instead of it.
- Always optionalNot keen on needles? No problem. There’s always another way to treat it.
- Trained physiosOnly physios with postgraduate acupuncture training provide it.
Who provides it
Book with one of our acupuncture-trained physios and mention that you’re interested.
Sarah Heasman
Postgraduate certificate in acupuncture. In Queenstown practice since 2007.
Book with Sarah
Tove Williman
Postgraduate accreditation in acupuncture. Specialises in ski knees and shoulders.
Book with Tove
Louise Parker
Over 20 years treating Queenstown’s injured skiers, mountain bikers and trail runners.
Book with LouisePrices & ACC
Acupuncture is part of your physio appointment, so you pay your normal physio fee, and ACC can help if your injury is covered.
Common questions
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a quick prick as the needle goes in, then a dull ache, heaviness or tingle. It shouldn’t be sharp or severe. Tell your physio straight away if it is.
Is it safe?
Yes, when done by a trained practitioner. Minor soreness, a small bruise or feeling tired afterwards are the most common side effects. Serious problems are very rare.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t have it?
Tell your physio if you’re pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder or are very anxious about needles. We don’t usually use acupuncture with children under 15.
Is it the same as dry needling?
They’re closely related. Both use the same fine needles. Dry needling targets tight bands in muscles; acupuncture may also use traditional points. Your physio will explain what they’re using and why.
Do I need a separate appointment?
No. Book a normal physio appointment with Sarah, Tove or Louise and let them know you’re interested.
Ask us if acupuncture could help.
Book a physio appointment online or call 03 409 0078.