What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile, pre-wrapped and disposable needles into certain points on the body and sometimes in the ear. How many needles are used, and where on the body they are placed, will depend upon the condition being treated.
Western Medical Acupuncture is an adaptation of the traditional Chinese method and can be used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, some of which are listed below:
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Back & Neck Pain
- Bells Palsy and Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Dermatological Conditions
- Frozen Shoulder
- Gynaecological Conditions
- Hay Fever
- Knee Pain
- Migraine
- Osteoarthritis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Smoking Cessation
- Tinnitus
- Weight Loss
Acupuncture for pain
Highly effective for pain relief, acupuncture stimulates the nerves in skin and muscles and increases the release of serotonin and endorphins – the body’s natural pain killers – and modifies the way pain signals are received by the brain. Electro Acupuncture (EAP) can also be used to treat some conditions (for example osteoarthritis and frozen shoulder), whereby a gentle electrical current is passed between pairs of acupuncture needles.
Does it hurt?
You might feel a small scratch when the needle is being inserted, a dull ache or a tingling sensation when the needles are in situ, but most people feel very little discomfort.
Consultation
An initial consultation prior to the first treatment will cover your medical history and general health and lifestyle. I will also ask if you have consulted your GP about your condition, and if you are undergoing treatment with other healthcare professionals.
Important note prior to booking
If you have a blood disorder, such as haemophilia, or if you are taking medication that prevents the blood clotting, you may not be able to have acupuncture. Please consult your GP before booking.
If you are pregnant it is generally safe to have acupuncture, but you must let your acupuncturist know as there are certain points that cannot be used safely during pregnancy.