Chinese Acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient Chinese Medicine principles which go back more than 3000 years. As one part of a whole spectrum of treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture has been effectively practiced in China and whole Far East for thousands years. The fact that it has survived for thousands years and is becoming increasingly popular in western world is enough proof of its efficacy.
The overall aim of acupuncture treatment is to restore the body’s balance. It is designed to re-balance and unblock the flow of energy Qi within the body. Our acupuncturists have undergone rigorous training in China, so to provide an exceptional level of expertise and experience.
In a session, the fine acupuncture needle is used to stimulate specific, powerful sites (acupoints) along meridian lines, which is to promote healing throughout the body’s various systems. Acupuncture has been successfully used to treat pain, PTSD, arthritis, chronic stress, addiction, insomnia, migraines, digestive disorders and much more.
Common Questions about Acupuncture
Q: How does acupuncture work?
A: Acupuncture is a form of therapy in which fine, disposable needles are inserted into specific points on the body call “Acu-points”. According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body’s motivating energy – known as “Qi” – moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of meridians (channels) beneath the skin. Qi consists of equal and opposite qualities – Yin and Yang – and when these become imbalanced, illness may result.
By inserting fine needles into the acupuncture channels, acupuncture aims to restore a natural balance of Yin and Yang throughout the whole body, seeking to treat the root course of the diseases.
Q: What are the needles like?
A: Only sterile, disposable needles are used so there is no risk of infection.
All the needles we use are sterile, come in sterile packaging and are disposed of safely after a single use. They are made of high grade stainless steel and are extremely fine. Unlike the hollow needles used in hospitals or GP clinics, acupuncture needles are solid, they are hair-thin, very flexible and not designed to cut the skin.
Q: Does Acupuncture hurt?
A: Although people experience different sensations from acupuncture, acupuncture treatments are rarely described as painful. You might feel a slight prick or a tingling feeling, which is often compared to a mosquito bite and disappears very quickly.
Once the needles are inserted, they may be manipulated to obtain a mild “DeQi” sensation, which is normally described as warming, heavy, numb or tingling.
We take great care to make customers very comfortable so that they can relax while the needles are in place. It is common to feel a tremendous sense of relaxation and calm during the acupuncture treatment, many people even fall asleep.
Q: How quickly can I expect to feel better ?
A: This depends on the type of condition being treated, as well as the individual’s response to treatments. Generally speaking, most patients start to feel the benefits from acupuncture in 2-3 treatments. If the symptom is acute, sometimes improvement is felt after 1 treatment, and may only need 3-5 treatments to resolve. For the chronic and long term problem, it may take a course of treatments to help resolve.
On your first visit, your acupuncturist will carry out an initial consultation, produce a confidential report and a treatment plan. The suggested treatment plan is based on our experience with treating your particular condition.
Q: How often should I be treated?
A: Typically we suggest start from once a week. If the condition is acute and severe, you may need treatments 2-3 times per week for the first couple of weeks. As conditions improve, patients start to need acupuncture less and less frequently. Typically, after a while patients only have acupuncture review periodically for maintenance.
Q: What should I wear for an acupuncture session ?
A: It is advisable to wear loose fitting clothes that can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees. It is best if your pants are stretchy and can be pulled easily above the knee so as not to constrict your leg. If you have long hair, it helps to bring a headband or hair tie.
We are member ofATCM (Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture UK) and you need to check with your insurance plan. We will give you a receipt and/or fill out a form you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Typically, patients will pay for treatment and reclaim the cost through their insurers where we provide and receipts and reports as requested (the only exception to this being Vitality).