Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the longest-standing forms of healthcare in the world originating in China around 2,500 years ago.

People come to us seeking relief from pain and discomfort on both physical and emotional levels. Stress, poor nutrition, infection and injury can all lead to a reduction in the body’s vital energy, known as ‘Qi’. When the balanced flow of Qi is disturbed then health and vitality may be compromised.

With the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body we aim to regulate flow and thereby restore health in a natural and non-invasive way.

By focusing on the individual as a whole rather than isolated symptoms, we seek to address the root cause of imbalance so that you may achieve long lasting health, vitality and peace of mind. Following treatment people often report feeling an enhanced sense of well-being and improved sleep as their main health complaint improves.

Alongside acupuncture, other Chinese Medicine treatments such as moxibustion (a process of warming the acupuncture points), cupping and gua sha (a stimulative treatment using a smooth-edged tool) may be used to facilitate the balanced flow of Qi.

Where helpful we may also provide you with dietary and lifestyle advise to support you on your journey to good health.

What to expect when you visit us

At the first session, which lasts 90 minutes, your practitioner will take your full medical history, read your pulses, look at your tongue and carry out your first acupuncture treatment. Follow-up treatments then last for 45 minutes.

Your practitioner will decide which combination of needle points is right for you according to your individual treatment plan. The needles are so fine that most people don’t feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as your practitioner adjusts the needle and many people feel deeply relaxed during treatment. Acupuncture points are located all over the body so it is advisable to wear loose clothing.

Although every person is different and their health will change at its own pace, people normally start with a course of 4 to 6 weekly treatments. It may be helpful to have further treatments which your practitioner can advise you on. As their health stabilises some people find it beneficial to come for maintenance treatments every one to three months.

For more information about various conditions that can be addressed with Acupuncture including research factsheets, please visit the British Acupuncture Council website.