ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is an ancient system of holistic medicine. Health is dependent on the body’s motivational energy called ‘QI’ or ‘Chi’.
The QI moves through a system of channels called meridians. Inserting fine needles at certain points into these meridians can stimulate the body’s own healing response and restore its natural balance.
The primary aim of acupuncture is to restore a person’s equilibrium on all levels physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually improving the overall well-being of the patient, rather than just isolating the symptoms.
Acupuncture is also highly effective as a preventive measure to benefit and maintain health e.g. to strengthen the immune system. It can also be helpful for people trying to overcome addictions.
In addition to acupuncture, our practitioners use a variety of traditional techniques including guasha, moxa, cupping (myofascial release) and tuina.
Acupuncture FAQ
Many people use acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or conditions. Others choose acupuncture as a preventive measure to strengthen their constitution or because they just feel generally unwell. Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages including babies, children and the elderly. It can be very effective when integrated with conventional medicine.
Try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse, and you may need to lie on your stomach. You should also avoid alcohol and food or drink that colours your tongue such as coffee or strong tea. It is a good idea to wear loose-fitting clothes so that the acupuncture points, especially those on your lower limbs, are easily accessible.
During treatment patients commonly experience a heaviness of the limbs or a pleasant feeling of deep relaxation. Patients frequently comment that apart from relief from a particular condition, they also enjoy increased energy levels, better digestion and sleep as well as an improved sense of well being.
Yes. Children and adolescents usually respond very well to acupuncture. Many acupuncturists specialise in paediatric care.
Acupuncture has virtually no unpleasant side effects. Any that do occur are mild and self-correcting. Occasionally there may be minor bruising at the needle point or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms as your Qi clears and resettles.
You are likely to feel relaxed and calm. If the treatment has been particularly strong you may feel tired or drowsy and it is worth bearing this in mind if you plan to drive or use any other machinery soon afterwards.
Yes. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication but you should always consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription. DO NOT stop taking medication without professional guidance.
Every treatment plan is tailored to the specific needs of each patient. The frequency and length of acupuncture treatment can vary, but as a very rough guide, most people will require treatment once a week at first, with each session lasting between 30-60 minutes. As your health returns, the frequency of your treatments can be reduced.
Different people respond to treatment in different ways. Some people are quick to respond to treatment and notice dramatic changes in their health, others notice more gradual changes and require treatment over several months. Some people feel the need to come for treatment only during stressful periods or simply for preventative maintenance.
Yes. Acupuncture needles are very much finer than the needles used for injections and blood tests. You may not even feel them penetrate the skin and once in place they are hardly noticeable. Acupressure or electro-acupuncture do not use needles and can be as effective in certain cases.
That depends upon your insurer. As the demand for complementary medicine increases more private health insurance companies are beginning to offer cover for traditional acupuncture and you should check your individual policy details.