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GraMedica

TREATMENT METHODS

Clavitherapy in Poznań — Polish Pressure-Point Therapy

Clavitherapy (Polish acupressure / pin-pressure technique) developed by Dr. Ferdynand Barbasiewicz. Stimulates over 1,100 mapped points on the body using a specialised instrument called a klawik, without breaking the skin.

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Klawiki, surgical-steel instruments used for clavitherapy at GraMedica clinic

What is clavitherapy?

Clavitherapy in Poznań is a Polish, non-invasive acupressure method —
also searchable as klawiterapia (the original Polish name) or
pin-pressure therapy in English. Treatment uses small surgical-steel
instruments called klawiki to apply pressure to biologically active points
on the skin, without penetration. Developed by Dr. Ferdynand Barbasiewicz,
it combines reflexology, acupressure, and neurotherapy. A safe alternative
for patients who cannot tolerate needles.

Treatment goal. Stimulate nerve conduction and activate the body's
natural regenerative mechanisms by triggering reflex arcs. The body is
brought into a state of self-regulation and self-recovery.

How clavitherapy differs from acupuncture and dry needling. Despite
surface similarity, these are three distinct techniques:

  • Acupuncture. Needles penetrate the skin, work on TCM meridians.
  • Dry needling. Needles penetrate the skin, work on muscle trigger points.
  • Clavitherapy. Instruments (klawiki) do not break the skin and work via pressure on biologically active points.

This non-invasive nature makes clavitherapy an appropriate option for
patients who cannot tolerate needles or have contraindications to invasive
techniques.

What a session looks like. I hold 2–7 klawiki, surgical-steel
instruments shaped like nails, and apply pressure to selected points on
the patient's body. The pressure is repeated 1 to 10+ times per point,
until symptoms ease. Intensity and frequency depend on the severity and
nature of the problem.

Clinical effects of clavitherapy:

  • regulation of muscle tension
  • improved nervous system function
  • support for headaches and migraines
  • relief from sinus conditions and hay-fever symptoms
  • reduction of stress-related complaints
  • support for neurodegenerative conditions
  • spine and musculoskeletal pain

Over 1,100 mapped points. The method's creator identified over 1,100
biologically active points corresponding to various conditions. This allows
a holistic approach, addressing causes, not just symptoms.

Safety. The treatment is non-invasive and suitable for patients of
any age. Klawiki are sterile, pressure does not damage the skin. Mild
discomfort with severely tense muscles resolves immediately after treatment.
Improvement is often felt after the first session.

INDICATIONS

When I use clavitherapy

Particularly suitable for patients who cannot tolerate needle techniques or want a non-invasive approach.

Headaches and migraines

Points on the neck, face, and head often respond quickly to clavitherapy.

Tension muscle pain

Neck, shoulders, back, when needles are contraindicated or unwanted.

Stress and nervous tension

Effect on autonomic nervous system. Supportive in insomnia, anxiety, burnout.

Sinus conditions and hay fever

Facial points provide symptomatic support during flare-ups or chronic phases.

Spine pain

Clavitherapy as supplement to manual therapy, not replacement.

Patients with needle anxiety

Klawiki don't penetrate the skin, a safe alternative to acupuncture and dry needling.

Common questions about clavitherapy

Is clavitherapy the same as klawiterapia?
Yes — clavitherapy is the anglicised name for klawiterapia, the original Polish term. Same method, same instruments (klawiki), same clinical principles. The English name reflects the technique's defining feature: pressure-point stimulation with metal pins (clavi-) without skin penetration.
Does clavitherapy hurt?
Pressure on relaxed tissue is generally painless. In strongly tense areas there may be temporary discomfort that subsides immediately after the point is released. Klawiki don't break the skin, so there is no risk of cuts.
How is clavitherapy different from acupuncture?
Clavitherapy uses instruments (klawiki) that press on skin points without penetrating. Acupuncture inserts thin needles under the skin. Clavitherapy was developed in Poland, acupuncture in China. Different origins, partially overlapping point maps, different depth of effect.
How many sessions are needed?
Improvement is often felt after the first session. Full therapeutic effect for chronic problems typically requires 5–10 visits. The exact plan is set after the first assessment.
Does clavitherapy treat multiple sclerosis?
No. Clavitherapy can support symptomatically (e.g. spasticity, tension, pain) as adjunct to neurological treatment, but does not replace specialist care. Any such plan is set carefully and after consultation with the treating physician.
Can I combine clavitherapy with physiotherapy?
Yes, and we often do. Clavitherapy complements manual therapy and exercise well. In a single visit I may use several tools depending on what the tissue needs.

Book a clavitherapy session

No referral, no waiting lists. The right option if you need a non-invasive technique on biologically active points.

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