Frequently asked questions
If you have a question and can't find the answer on this page or elsewhere on this site please feel free to contact me.
What is acupuncture?
It is an ancient system of healing that has been practised in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. Although in the West it is often publicised as being useed for pain relief it is in fact used to treat people with a wide range of illnesses. It focuses on improving overall well being, not purely the treatment of specific symptoms. Treatment involves stimulation of specifically chosen points on the body with fine needles or by applying gentle heat there by burning a herb known as moxa.
Is it safe?
Yes. Research published in the British Medical Journal and elsewhere shows that the risk of a serious or even a minor adverse event is extremely small. Only sterile, disposable needles are used. These are shallowly inserted at points where there are no major organs or blood vessels. The small amount of smoke from moxabustion has also been tested and all the by-products in moxa smoke fell within accepted safe limits.
Is it painful?
It is not like having an injection. Acupuncture needles are much finer and solid rather than hollow. The sensation can vary from a dull ache, to a tingling. Some people experience no more than a pin prick and others experience a short, sharp sensation which passes in seconds. The aim is to use as few needles as possible to achieve the desired effect. The overall effect can be a pleasant feeling of relaxation, an awareness of increased energy levels and being more alive.
Why do people come for acupuncture?
Most people come to me with something that has been bothering them for a while. People have come with anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, depression, migraines, panic attacks, stress, womens' health issues and with many other problems. It need not be anything specific and it may not be anything just physical, or an “illness” in the Western sense. Click here to find out more.
Will it help me?
Acupuncture can help many problems and most people find that they also have more energy and an enhanced sense of well being. First of all I would want to talk privately with you as it is the individual I treat and not just the complaint. Please feel free to contact me on 07858 254744. Please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
What will happen at my first visit?
The first session is a double one in which I find out why you have come, begin to get to know you and your life history and work out how I might best help you. I start treatment by clearing out any unhealthy energy from your system. This is a necessary step. One doesn't build a house without clearing the ground and laying firm foundations. So it is with treatment: a little care at first saves time later. I will be using points on the back, body, arms and legs. Needles cannot be inserted through clothing, so a certain amount of undressing is necessary to expose the points, but otherwise you remain covered as it is important to keep warm and comfortable.
How much treatment will I need?
This varies from person to person and will be discussed during treatment. Some people notice a dramatic improvement after their first visit, but it is more usual not to notice much change until after three or four treatments as the effect is cumulative.
How often do I need to come?
Normally I recommend weekly as this is usually the most beneficial frequency. Once things are on the mend I discuss spacing out treatments to perhaps fortnightly and later monthly. Many people keep coming after their initial complaint has improved as they recognise that acupuncture helps keep them healthy. They might then come to see me when the seasons change (often a difficult time) or when they are perhaps a bit under the weather or having a stressful time. Acupuncture was originally used as a form of preventative medicine.