What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture dates back 3,000 years and is a system of healthcare that aims to balance the body and mind holistically, creating equilibrium. The focus is on the individual and the illness and symptoms are addressed in relation to what the acupuncturist diagnoses, not the label that has been given. Illness and pain occur when the equilibrium of energy in the body is disturbed. Acupuncturists aim to restore free flow of energy, known as Qi, throughout the meridian system (channels) in the body, re-establishing balance by inserting ultra-fine, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points.

From a Western perspective, the stimulation of the fine needles can cause a release of tissue mediators, stimulating the nervous system. In relation to pain, this can lead to a local analgesic and anti-inflammatory action, but the changes in the body’s mechanisms can create homeostasis, aiding with many other conditions.

Initial Consultation

A detailed consultation will take place, asking questions about past and present health, your presenting conditions, lifestyle and diet and a range of other factors, such as sleeping habits. This is to enable the acupuncturist to gain a detailed insight into your whole being and to devise a personalised treatment plan.

The acupuncturist will also look at your tongue and take your pulse as these can provide useful information.

Acupuncture points will be selected according to the information given and fine needles are inserted into the body. The needles are left in for 20- 30 minutes and you are left to relax.

Benefits

Acupuncture can treat physical, mental and emotional conditions. It is an effective treatment for many conditions and can be used alongside Western medicine.

The government body NICE has recommended acupuncture for:

Acupuncture is also widely used as an effective treatment for a range of illnesses and conditions, with the World Health Organisation listing a number of conditions that acupuncture has trialled. Research into acupuncture is growing, increasing the popularity and effectiveness.

Acupuncture has been shown to benefit:

There are a vast range of other conditions that acupuncture can be used to treat, including simple well-being, preventing illness and relaxation. The British Acupuncture Council have a large number of research fact sheets specifying the benefits:

Including: Asthma, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, Fibromyalgia, Gastrointestinal tract disorders, Gynaecological problems, IBS, Insomnia, Menopausal symptoms, MS, Raynaud's, Smoking cessation, Stress, Tinnitus, Urinary problems.

To find out if acupuncture can help you, please call or email.