What is Acupuncture?

It is a system of healing that uses fine needles to activate the meridians of energy that circulate around the entire body. The needles are placed at specific points on the body in order to encourage the energy or Qi to release any blockages (ie. pain, allergic reactions, breathing difficulties) that might be causing discomfort or illness. The principal aim is to encourage the patient's innate healing ability and thereby regain equilibrium of body, heart and mind.

What will happen on my first treatment?

A complete case history will be taken by the acupuncturist. This will cover all aspects of your life such as your current symptoms, the treatment that you may have already received, your medical history, your diet, your work schedule, home situation, sleep patterns and your emotional state. Your pulses will be taken on both wrists and the acupucnturist may ask to see your tongue.

Certain acupuncture points will be chosen and you might be surprised that although you are suffering from a headache the points used may be on your foot or hand.

The sensation that you will feel through the needles is usually no more than a sharp tingling or a dull throb often followed by a feeling of relief and calm.

Acupuncture sessions take about an hour and whenever possible treatment
is aimed both at alleviating the symptoms and getting to the root of the problem.

How many sessions will I need?

Each individual and each condition will respond differently to treatment. Some patients will need treatment over several months while others respond to treatment very quickly. Generally, the longer the condition has been present, the longer it will take to heal.

Initially the acupuncturist may suggest weekly treatments followed by monthly or less frequent visits as a means of keeping you balanced and well.

Who can benefit from acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is effective for many kinds of pain relief. It can also treat a wide range of health problems including:

- neurological and musculoskeletal disorders - gastrointestinal problems
- respiratory diseases
- gynecological disorders
- infertility
- skin diseases
- allergies and addictions
- stress, anxiety and insomnia

Acupuncturists become members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) - www.acupuncture.org.uk - after a minimum of three years study of traditional acupuncture and bio-medical sciences. Members of the BAcC have public liability insurance.