Contemporary Neurofunctional Medical Acupuncture

Guest Authored by Karim Hanna, Physiotherapist and Medical Acupuncture Provider at Mayfair Lakeshore

Contemporary Neurofunctional Medical Acupuncture

When I introduce this type of acupuncture to my patients, I get a few different reactions; I have those who are enthusiastic and have tried it before, I have the sceptics and just the total non-believers. I’ll admit it, I too had my doubts in the past, but that changed very quickly as soon as I saw instant lasting results in both my patients and myself. I quickly discovered that medical acupuncture is an incredible tool that is very scientific, reproducible, consistent and result driven.

So, what exactly is Contemporary Neurofunctional Medical Acupuncture?

It is a medical acupuncture treatment which involves the insertion of a thin (as thin as one hair), but solid needle, PAIN-FREE, into specific anatomical location. The anatomical locations are based on the practitioners understanding of the human anatomy, including, physiology, muscular anatomy and nervous system anatomy. The ultimate goal is to restore the nervous system. Almost like a ctrl-alt-delete reset on your computer, but for the nervous system.
The nervous system is a complex system with millions of little branches. Think of Highway 404, 400 and 401, all combined together. Now imagine it’s 5pm and there is multiple construction sites and accidents along all routes. You’re still going to be able to get to your destination, but less efficiently and effectively and you might need to do a couple of detours.

Nerves are similar. If there is a disruption due to past or current injuries, or just poor function, the nervous signals become altered and the ability to adapt to your body’s demands reduces. This results in poor connectivity and muscles not generating appropriate forces because signals are not optimal from the brain to the muscles and back. The dysfunction can then result in poor movement and, ultimately, to pain. That being said, the painful structure is not always the structure responsible. Here’s a little example: if you have poor hip control and the nerves supplying the gluteus muscles are not activating as they should, it can lead to increase weight-bearing on the knee. With many micro-traumas and repetitive strain, this can consequently lead to knee pain. Please keep in mind there could be multiple reasons for a dysfunction.

What Are the Benefits of Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture helps restore the function as it helps to clean up the traffic jam and targets the dysfunction and lack of connectivity. This helps to restore range of motion & muscle strength (almost immediately) and promotes better movement. The Neurofunctional methodology is a versatile approach that clinically investigates the multiple levels of dysfunction. Clinically, we look to find the answers at the neurological, biomechanical, muscular, metabolic and psychoemotional levels.

Want to Learn More?

For more information on Contemporary Acupuncture, check out the Canadian Contemporary Acupuncture Association, and the McMaster Contemporary Acupuncture Program.

If you would like to experience the medical acupuncture difference, speak to our Physiotherapist and Medical Acupuncture Provider, Karim Hanna.

To book a treatment, contact the Lakeshore Wellness Spa & Sports Clinic (416) 466-3704.