About Acupuncture

What is traditional Chinese acupuncture ?
Traditional Chinese acupuncture is a medical system developed within Chinese culture and philosophy over 4,000 years.  It aims to activate the innate healing ability of the Body-Mind, not to ‘attack’ a disease;  to address the root cause of illness, not simply to alleviate symptoms.  Diagnosis is based on finding out the patient’s patterns of disharmony.  A treatment plan is then devised to help the patient back to a state of balance.

Traditional Chinese acupuncture is used to maintain health and help prevent serious illness.  However, in treating the person’s patterns of disharmony many health problems can be relieved.

Does it hurt ?
Hair-fine needles are inserted into the skin at acupuncture points.  If the patient relaxes there is no pain on insertion.  There is then a subtle sensation often described as a dull ache or electrical numbness as the energy is contacted.

Is it hygienic ?
Stainless steel needles are sterilized and prepacked under quality control procedures.  They are disposed of in a sharps container after each use.  Prepacked sterile swabs are used to prevent infection.  Bleeding or bruising is rare.  To protect the patient ,a rigorous code of professional conduct is followed.

What happens in a treatment ?
All consultations are confidential.  You fill in a questionnaire during the first session.  All the factors that may be affecting your health are assessed.  Tongue and pulse diagnosis are an important part.  Acupuncture takes place on a treatment couch.  Clothing is removed only when needles are inserted.  They are usually left in place for 20 to 40 minutes.  Progress is reviewed in the light of each treatment.  You can help this by making appropriate changes as recommended.

How many treatments?
Good effects are usually felt after just one treatment, but a series of treatments may be needed to make a significant change in health.  You may then wish to have acupuncture periodically to maintain health.

What if I am taking medication ?
Acupuncture does not interfere with medication.  In fact it can complement  any conventional treatment that you may be receiving, working alongside your GP or hospital specialist.

How will I respond ?
Take it easy for at least 24 hours after a treatment and do not attempt to do strenuous activity.  While improved well-being is generally experienced, there may be temporary healing reactions as toxins and negative emotions are released.  To reduce the risk of an adverse reaction, make sure you have come to the session having eaten within the previous 4 hours.