What Is Neuro-Anatomical Acupuncture and How Does It Work?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to produce a therapeutic effect. The mechanisms behind acupuncture are well-studied and documented in the peer-reviewed literature. At Gelley Chiropractic, acupuncture is explained and applied through a neurophysiologic lens: the needles stimulate sensory nerve fibres that trigger the release of endogenous opioids, including endorphins and enkephalins, which modulate pain through the central nervous system. Local needling also produces changes in tissue circulation and can deactivate active myofascial trigger points, reducing referred pain patterns and restoring normal muscle function.
Dr. Gelley practises neuro-anatomical acupuncture, a form of acupuncture based on current concepts of neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, and pathophysiology rather than traditional Chinese medicine frameworks. Needle placement is guided by anatomy and the patient's clinical findings, not traditional point charts or energy-flow theories.
How Dr. Gelley Approaches Acupuncture at Gelley Chiropractic
Dr. Geoff Gelley, DC integrates acupuncture into musculoskeletal care as a complement to chiropractic treatment when the clinical assessment supports its use. His approach is guided by anatomical acupuncture principles, targeting points based on the neurological and muscular structures involved in a patient's specific presentation rather than applying a standardized protocol.
Dr. Gelley and the clinic's chiropractors obtained their certification in neuro-anatomical acupuncture from the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI), now known as Acupuncture Canada. The program is open only to licensed physicians, chiropractors, physiotherapists, dentists, naturopaths, and registered nurses in Canada, reflecting the level of anatomical and clinical knowledge required to practise safely.
Conditions commonly addressed with acupuncture at Gelley Chiropractic include myofascial pain and trigger point syndromes, neck pain, back pain, and related radicular symptoms, and headaches with a muscular or cervicogenic component. Acupuncture is typically integrated with spinal manipulation, soft tissue work, and rehabilitative exercise as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
What to Expect from Acupuncture at Gelley Chiropractic
Initial Assessment
Treatment
After Treatment
What Acupuncture at Gelley Chiropractic Can Help You Achieve
Outcomes patients commonly experience
Reduced pain intensity: Patients commonly report improvement in areas treated, particularly where myofascial trigger points are contributing to the presentation, with meaningful reduction in pain intensity within the first few sessions.
Improved range of motion: Needling to the neck and upper back musculature frequently results in improved cervical and thoracic range of motion as muscular guarding and trigger point activity is reduced.
Decreased headache frequency: Patients with muscular or cervicogenic headache patterns commonly report reduced headache frequency and intensity following a course of acupuncture treatment targeted at the relevant cervical and suboccipital structures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture in Winnipeg
Yes. When performed by a trained clinician using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture has a well-established safety record. At Gelley Chiropractic, acupuncture is performed by chiropractors certified through the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI), now known as Acupuncture Canada.
Most patients report minimal discomfort. The needles are fine gauge and the insertion itself is typically not painful. A mild aching or pressure sensation at the needle site, particularly when a myofascial trigger point is engaged, is common and generally a sign that the target structure has been reached.
No. Dr. Gelley uses an anatomical acupuncture approach based on neurophysiologic and musculoskeletal principles. Needle placement is guided by anatomy and the patient's clinical findings, not traditional Chinese medicine point charts or energy-flow frameworks.
Coverage for acupuncture varies by insurance plan. Direct billing is available at Gelley Chiropractic for most major insurance plans, and both WCB and MPI cover acupuncture treatments. Contact the clinic to confirm whether your plan covers acupuncture before your first visit.
Yes, and this is how it is typically used at Gelley Chiropractic. Acupuncture is integrated into a treatment plan alongside spinal manipulation, soft tissue work, and rehabilitative exercise when the clinical assessment indicates it is appropriate for the patient's presentation.
Book an Acupuncture Assessment at Gelley Chiropractic
The clinic has been serving Winnipeg's St. Vital community with evidence-based chiropractic and acupuncture care since 1993. Direct billing is available for most major insurance plans, including WCB and MPI.
