Treatments
Conditions commonly supported by acupuncture
In the UK, acupuncture is currently recognised by the National Institute for Healthcare Excellence (NICE) for Chronic Primary Pain and the management of headaches and migraines.
In addition, acupuncture is commonly used for:
- Aches, pain, injuries and musculoskeletal problems including back pain
- Allergies such as hayfever
- Anxiety and depression
- Arthritis
- Digestive issues, e.g. IBS
- Emotional issues
- Facial rejuvenation
- Sleep issues
- Stress
- Womens health, including menopausal symptoms, menstrual disorders, and fertility problems
To see the most up-to-date research and evidence on conditions supported by acupuncture, please visit the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or Evidence Based Acupuncture websites.
What to expect at your appointment
Discussion
At your first appointment, we will start by discussing your medical history, current health and lifestyle. It is a chance to discuss the areas of your health you’d like to improve and answer any questions you may have.
Body diagnosis
Body diagnosis includes examining the area affected by your symptoms, as well as your arms, legs and abdomen. After that, we will look at your tongue and take the pulses on both wrists.
It is recommended to wear loose fitting clothing to your appointment which allows access to your lower legs, arms, abdomen and back. All treatments are undertaken with your comfort and modesty in mind.
Bringing it all together
All the information we gather during the consultation will be assimilated to arrive at a diagnosis. Subsequently, we will design a treatment plan tailored to your specific signs and symptoms.
Needling
Needles will be inserted into specific points on your body according to your treatment plan and left in place for around 20 minutes, giving you time to relax and unwind.
Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people will not feel them being inserted. It is normal to experience a mild tingling sensation or dull ache as the needle is adjusted.
Sometimes moxibustion and/or cupping may be added to the treatment if appropriate (at no extra cost).
Follow up appointments
Any further appointments will be based on your response to previous treatments. In addition, we will consider any new medical details plus examination and pulse taking.
The frequency of appointments will depend on your individual response. That is to say, most people undergo a course of treatments that reduce in frequency as the body responds.
If you have never had acupuncture before or you would like to discuss any particular concerns, please do not hesitate to get in touch.