Unlocking the Healing Power of Acupuncture Therapy
Table of Contents
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been practised in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body, most often done by inserting thin needles through the skin, to cause a change in the physical functions of the body.
Research has shown that acupuncture reduces nausea and vomiting after surgery and chemotherapy. It can also relieve pain. Researchers don’t fully understand how acupuncture works. It might aid the activity of your body’s pain-killing chemicals. It also might affect how you release chemicals that regulate blood pressure and flow.
Castle Craig Hospital offers auricular acupuncture, part of our complementary therapies, as a safe way to relieve withdrawal symptoms during detoxification from alcohol or drugs.
What are the benefits of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture offers the following benefits:
- Relieves withdrawal symptoms
- Improves sleep and helps deal with insomnia
- Promotes relaxation
- Stimulates the release of endorphins which enhance the immune system and reduce pain, stress and anxiety.
Our fully-trained acupuncturist applies thin needles gently under the skin of the outer ear at five designated ear points and to a depth of about 3mm. We issue the acupuncture in a relaxed group setting and each session lasts for around 40 minutes. Disposable, sterilised needles ensure strict hygienic practice.
Acupuncture may be included in individual treatment plans, depending on availability and referral by either medical or therapeutic staff.
Treating Addiction Since 1988
Acupuncture is approved by the National Institute of Drug Abuse. The National Institute of Drug Abuse stresses that the use of acupuncture in the treatment of addiction is effective and leads to significant results.
Patient Comments
‘Acupuncture has benefited me greatly, physically and psychologically. My sleeping has improved immensely and my mental state, mood and anxiety are more balanced.’
‘I have an irrational fear of needles! D. made me relax and settled me and was incredibly comforting and caring throughout the whole process! I haven’t felt so relaxed for a very long time! Thanks!’
‘Well organised, well explained and treated individually with respect.’
‘I am a complete convert to this therapy, it has helped a great deal with my anxiety and insomnia.’
‘I was doubtful but proven wrong. Really helpful. Will go for more sessions.’
‘Helped ease disability pain.’
‘Patients should all try it.’
How Can Castle Craig Help?
Who will I speak to when I call Castle Craig?
When you call you will reach our Help Centre team who will give you all the information you need to help you decide whether to choose treatment at Castle Craig. If you decide that you would like to have a free screening assessment you will be asked a series of questions to build up a picture of your medical and drug use history as well as any mental health issues you are facing. If you decide you want to proceed with treatment you will be put in touch with our admissions case managers who will guide you through the admissions process.
How long is the rehab programme?
Residential rehab treatment starts at 4 weeks and can go up to 12+ weeks. Research shows us that the longer you stay in rehab and are part of the residential therapy programme, the longer the likelihood of continued abstinence and stable recovery.
How do I pay for rehab?
One concern we sometimes hear from people is how they will fund their rehab treatment. You can pay for treatment at Castle Craig privately, or through medical insurance, and some people receive funding through the NHS. The cost of rehab varies depending on what kind of accommodation you choose.
What happens at the end of my treatment?
Castle Craig thoroughly prepares patients before departure by creating a personalised continuing care plan which is formulated following discussions with the medical and therapeutic team. We offer an online aftercare programme which runs for 24 weeks after leaving treatment, in order to ensure a smooth transition back into your everyday life. Patients leaving treatment automatically join our Recovery Club where they can stay connected via our annual reunion, events, online workshops and recovery newsletters.