Acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an ancient healthcare system that takes the laws of nature and applies them to the human body. It aims to restore and promote emotional and physical health.
The system is based on the fundamental principle of Qi (life energy) and the importance of balance and flow throughout the body. When Qi becomes blocked anywhere along the network of channels beneath the skin, it can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms. By inserting fine needles superficially to points on the body, it clears stagnation that impedes the natural flow of energy, stimulating the healing process and helping bring balance.
TCM has a holistic view of the person and the mind-body where all the systems, physical, emotional and mental, are interdependent and impacting one another. Treatment is based on a thorough consultation, a rounded overview of a person’s physical and emotional state, lifestyle and other contributing factors such as diet.
How It Can Help
Acupuncture is safe and suitable for most people. It can be used alongside conventional medicine and it is equally well-suited for both chronic and acute conditions. It aims to treat the whole person rather than specific symptoms in isolation. It can be effective for a range of conditions and is often used for pain relief, insomnia, stress or anxiety.
Acupuncture works cumulatively, while you will feel the benefits after one treatment, the best results are often achieved after six sessions or more. Regular treatment reduces and alleviates symptoms and promotes wellbeing. It is also very helpful in managing long term conditions.
Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, influencing the production of hormones and neurotransmitters and by activating the body’s self-regulating homeostatic systems, it stimulates the body’s own healing abilities.
Some people turn to acupuncture for help with a specific symptom or condition, others choose to have treatment to help maintain good health or simply to enhance their feeling of wellbeing.
What to expect
The first appointment is designed to get a clear picture of your health, your concerns and what you would like to achieve. This involves taking your medical history and discussing your current symptoms, as well as sleeping patterns, digestion, energy levels and emotional wellbeing. This information will help to gain a holistic view of your body-system and to tailor an individualised treatment plan that addresses your concerns and goals.
During the treatment, ultra-fine needles are placed at specific acupuncture points. People might feel the sensation of these points but it is rarely described as painful. The acupuncture needles are typically left in for 20 to 35 minutes, depending on what is treated. Most people find acupuncture treatment relaxing and feel very calm after treatment.
Depending on your condition, alongside acupuncture other Chinese medicine techniques may be used: moxibustion (the burning of medicated herbs to stimulate healing), guasha (rubbing of the skin to increase blood flow) or cupping therapy (suction therapy to facilitate circulation and release of tension). Lifestyle advise and diet recommendations may also be given.