Treatments
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient healthcare system established in China approximately 2500 years ago and is now practiced across the globe.
Traditional acupuncture focuses on the individual as a whole instead of isolated symptoms and incorporates physical, emotional and mental aspects. Treatment involves inserting extremely fine needles into specific points in the body to regulate the flow of Qi along pathways in the body. In traditional theory illness can be categorised in terms of deficiency, excess or blockage of Qi in these pathways and treatment aims to restore normal balance of Qi.
How acupuncture can help you
Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and is also important in the prevention of illness. Common conditions treated include:
- Musculoskeletal problems including back pain
- Arthritis
- Aches, pain and injuries
- Allergies such as hayfever
Menopausal symptoms
Gynaecological issues
Menstrual disorders including fertility problems
Digestive issues e.g. IBS
Headaches and migraine
Anxiety and depression
- Stress
- Sleep issues
- Emotional issues
For further information on all conditions treated by acupuncture and the latest research please visit the British Acupuncture Council website
What to expect at your appointment
At your initial appointment I will take your complete medical history, then I may examine the site of your symptoms as well as your arms, legs and abdomen. I will also look at your tongue and then take your pulse on both wrists. Your individual treatment plan will then be based on all of this information interpreted through my knowledge of Chinese medicine.
The needles will be inserted into specific points on your body according to your treatment plan. The needles used are extremely fine and most people will not feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingling sensation or dull ache as the needle is adjusted. The length of time the needles are left in depends on your individual diagnosis but the usual time is around 20 minutes and you can use this time to relax.
Follow up appointments will then focus on your response to previous treatments and any new medical history plus examination and pulse taking. The frequency of appointments will depend on the individual response. Normally people will have a course of treatments which will reduce in frequency as your body responds.
It is advisable to wear loose fitting clothing to your appointment which allows access to your lower legs, arms, abdomen and back. I will always make sure you are comfortable and that your modesty is maintained.
If you have never had acupuncture before or if you have any particular concerns then I am happy to discuss these with you before your appointment.
