ACUPUNCTURE
What is Acupuncture and how does it work?
Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine.
It is a form of therapy in which fine, sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body to produce a therapeutic effect – such as pain relief or improved muscle function.
Acupuncture is one of the most effective treatments for a wide range of muscle, nerve and joint related problems, as well as a variety of specific ailments and acute or chronic conditions.
Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system. This, in turn, releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture is not a ‘quick fix’ therapy.
In most cases the improvements brought about are gradual.
An Acupuncture treatment will usually leave the client feeling happy and full of energy. However, during the early stages of treatment you may experience deterioration in your condition, this is not unusual.
The phenomenon of getting a little worse before getting better is common in many health disciplines.
Please be patient during this period, and be sure to follow your therapist’s recommendations.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Patients may feel a tingling or a dull ache. You should not experience any significant pain. There are also very few side effects to acupuncture.
Patients that may be not suitable for Acupuncture due to a slight risk of bleeding, patients with bleeding disorders such as haemophilia (where the blood is unable to clot) may not be able to have Acupuncture.
If you take medicine to prevent blood clots, you must speak to your GP before you have Acupuncture.
It is generally safe to have Acupuncture when you are pregnant, however, you must let your Acupuncturist know if you are pregnant to determine if an Acupuncture appointment would be suitable for you.
Your appointment
General during the first appointment I will take a full medical case history, including past health and current conditions, whether you have seen your GP, other medical professional and if you had any other treatments for your condition. This is very important as it will allow me to obtain a full picture of your overall health and based on that I will be able to identify an individual patient programme that will be devised when your consultation is complete. I will also check your pulse, look at the tongue and may examine any areas where you feel pain. I will also ask you about your lifestyle.
ACUPUNCTURE Treatment may also include Electro-Acupuncture, Auricular Acupuncture (Ear Acupuncture), Facial Enhencment Acupuncture, Scalp Acupuncture, MOXA (HeatTherapy), Cupping Therapy and Infrared Acupuncture Heat Lamp.
The frequency and number of treatments needed will depend on individual condition.
