​FAQs

​What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest and established forms of healthcare. Acupuncturists are trained using subtle techniques to diagnose and treat different illnesses and ailments. The main focus if the treatment is on you as an individual and looks at the symptoms and the person's constitution in relation to each other. Treatment involves the use of tiny sterile needles into specific Acupuncture points on the body, with the aim to affect your body's qi.


Is it safe?

Acupuncture is extremely safe when practiced by a fully trained practitioner, as a member of the British Acupuncture Council we must adhere to certain standards of safe practice and codes of conduct. It is suitable for people of all ages from the elderly to teenagers, and for pregnant women and people on medication. It can be used alongside conventional medicine with a view to try and reduce the amount taken or to relieve the patient of many unwanted side effects.

How does it work?

Acupuncturists use tiny sterile needles at precisely located points to connect with your body’s qi. Following a detailed consultation and examination of aspects of your health and lifestyle, they will decide which points are right for you. The aim is to direct the flow of qi to trigger your body’s healing response and to restore physical, emotional and mental equilibrium. It also works to promote blood flow to certain areas, which in turn increase healing. Acupuncture is designed to affect your whole being as well as your symptoms so, as the condition being treated improves, you may notice other health problems resolve and an increased feeling of wellbeing.

What are the benefits?

A growing study of evidence-based clinical research is finding out how the body responds to acupuncture and what the benefits for a wide range of common health conditions. Many people have acupuncture to relieve specific aches and pains, such as osteoarthritis of the knee, period pains, headaches and low back pain, or for common health problems like an overactive bladder. Other people choose acupuncture when they can feel their bodily functions are not in balance, but they have no specific diagnosis. And many have regular treatments because they find it so beneficial and relaxing.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

The needles we use for Acupuncture are so fine that in most cases, people don’t feel them being inserted. Patients might feel a mild tingle or dull ache as the acupuncturist adjusts the needle to direct Qi but this is very normal. During the period the needles are in place most people feel deeply relaxed which can continue after they are removed.

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Where will the needles be inserted?

There are series of meridians or acupuncture channel all over the body that have specific points located at certain places along these channel. Most commonly used are the points on the hands, arms and lower limbs of the body.

What are the side effects?

Sometimes there can be a small bruise or mark where the needle has been inserted. In some cases people might feel dizzy or tired, but this will quickly pass. Most patients feel deeply relaxed and reach a sense of calm during and after the treatment, so for the first sessions we advise not to arrange to do too anything too strenuous that day straight after the treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions you need depends on your individual condition. Initially your acupuncturist would normally like to see you once or twice a week. Patients often start to feel benefits after the first or second treatment although long-standing and chronic conditions usually need more time to improve. We usually say around six consecutive sessions then we will review your progress. Once your health has stabilised you may require top-up or maintenance treatments every month or so. Traditional acupuncture is also very effective when used as preventive healthcare and many people like to go for a  session at the change of each season throughout the year.