Is it safe?

Acupuncture is a safe treatment for all and there are no adverse side effects. The needles used are single use, sterile and disposable. As a member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), I am bound by a Code of Practice which lays down stringent procedures regarding standards of hygiene and sterilisation for needles and other equipment.

How many treatments will I need?

Traditional Five Element Acupuncture regards each person as an individual with a unique constitution and this is what makes the treatment so effective. Predicting the number of treatments required depends on the individual and the condition, and this will be assessed during the initial consultation. Most patients start coming for treatment weekly, and see improvement within 4 treatments.

As treatment progresses, the interval between treatments lengthens to fortnightly and then occasionally.

What is the duration of a treatment?

The initial consultation can take 1½ to 2 hours.
Subsequent treatments are 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What happens when I go for treatment?

A consultation will be carried out covering your medical history, diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. At the start of treatment your pulses will be felt on both wrists to determine treatment planning. Acupuncture points will be used and these are not always close to the part of the body where you experience the problems.

How will I respond to treatment?

The response to treatment varies from person to person. People receiving acupuncture frequently report benefits well beyond their original complaint - often feeling better in themselves and more resourceful in facing day to day challenges.

What does it feel like?

Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to those used for giving injections or for taking blood. The needles are very fine and the sensation of having acupuncture is more like a tingling or a dull ache. During treatment, many people experience a pleasant feeling of relaxation.

Does it work?

Acupuncture is increasingly gaining public awareness through clinical trials that show that it is a tried and tested system of medicine.  It is used worldwide as a valid system of healthcare and in the UK the profession is regulated by the British Acupuncture Council thus, a qualified acupuncturist should be registered with this body.

Should my doctor know?

You are not obliged to tell your GP. However, if you are on prescription medication, you can inform them of your plans to have acupuncture. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication, but your doctor should be consulted regarding any change of prescription.

Can I have other treatments whilst having acupuncture?

Acupuncture is safe to use alongside other complementary medicine and conventional medicine.

Does Private Health Insurance cover acupuncture treatment?

Some private health insurance policies can include acupuncture as part of their cover and provision of this should be checked with your policy provider.