Question 1

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Western scientific research suggests the interaction between fine acupuncture needles and nerves cells, at the site of insertion, stimulates communication between the nervous system and the brain to release chemical messengers or neurotransmitters such as Serotonin, Dopamine, Noradrenaline Gaba and Endorphins (hormones). Neurotransmitters have specific functions, eg: Endorphins, our body’s ‘natural painkillers’, activate opiate receptors, causing an analgesic effect or pain relief. While, Serotonin has a role in mood stabilisation, sleep and digestion.

Evidence also suggests acupuncture improves micro circulation, affecting blood flow and the reduction of inflammation and oedema.

From a Classical Chinese medicine perspective, fine needles, inserted at specific acupuncture points, improve the flow of Qi (energy), Blood and Fluids throughout the body via the meridian or channel system. As free flow or equilibrium is restored, both physical and mental symptoms improve.

Diagnosis, according to the wrist pulse, tongue, palm diagnosis and patient symptoms are assessed in terms of deficiency, excess and stagnation. For example, pain is viewed as stagnation or blockage of the channel therefore acupuncture points aimed at dispersion of the blockage would be used.

Acupuncture is holistic, stimulating the body’s healing response so many find that it is not only their main health complaint that improves but other health issues often resolve as well.

Question 2

What happens during an initial acupuncture consultation?

Accepted Answer

During your first acupuncture appointment, you will be asked what brings you for treatment, what your symptoms are, how your present and previous health has been and what medications you are taking. Additional questions may be asked, some of which may seem unrelated to your current condition but that will be building a picture of your health from a Chinese medicine perspective.

Your pulse will also be taken at the wrist and the colour of your tongue noted. (Please don’t scrape your tongue before your appointment as your tongue in a natural state is better for diagnosis).

An individual treatment plan will be created with acupuncture points chosen specifically for your needs. As you relax on the treatment couch, needles (usually between 4 and 10) are gently put in place, where they will stay in for at least 30 mins. Moxa or infrared heat lamps may also be used to warm the area, this is deeply relaxing.

Question 3

What happens during follow up acupuncture appointments?

Accepted Answer

During follow-up acupuncture appointments, your progress will be reviewed and your pulses and tongue diagnosis repeated to assess if and how your treatment plan should be revised.

Acupuncture needles will be in place for 30-35 mins, as before, while you relax on the treatment couch.

Question 4

Is Acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is safe and highly effective when administered by a qualified licenced acupuncturist, particularly those who are accredited members of The British Acupuncture Council. Only sterile, single-use needles are used.

All needles are disposed of in a sharps box.

Question 5

What should I wear for Acupuncture treatment?

Accepted Answer

It is best to wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing such as joggers, shorts and t-shirts that can be rolled up to your knees and elbows.

If required, a gown and blanket will be provided.

Question 6

Are there any side effects from Acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is a safe treatment, however occasionally a small bruise will occur where a needle has been put.

Acupuncture is deeply relaxing, so you may feel a little tired after treatment and are likely to sleep well later that night.

It is advisable to drink water following treatment to remain hydrated.

Question 7

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Accepted Answer

The needles are thig as a cat's whisker and are usually inserted just a few millimetres into the skin, which means that they really don't hurt.

You may feel a slight dull ache or become aware of gentle tingling, which quickly passes. This sensation is described as De Qi, the needles engaging with your Qi (energy).

Question 8

How long do Acupuncture needles stay in?

Accepted Answer

Needles will stay in places for 30-35 minutes.

Question 9

How many Acupuncture treatments would I need?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture treatment effect is cumulative, hence the recovery made over a course of treatments. An acute or new condition eg. a muscle sprain in lower back due to playing sport/neck stiffness after waking up/sudden knee pain etc. may need 2-3 sessions. Chronic or long term conditions such as arthritis or recurring migraines may need 6 sessions. If there is steady improvement in your condition, fortnightly acupuncture may be suggested.

Recovery rates can vary according to your general health and age, your progress will be monitored and reviewed at each appointment and your treatment plan revise to continue optimal recovery.

For female disorders/fertility patients, duration of the treatment has to be at least three menstrual cycle, in some cases like PCOS, minimum treatment requirement is 4 months. Typically sessions are on a weekly basis, however, during supporting treatment while having IVF, Acupuncture treatments are also needed to be done before and after trigger shots day and the same frequency around an embryo transfer.

Question 10

How do you take payment for Acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

I usually take payment after treatment via bank transfer or via Super Business app. code which you can scan to pay with your phone. Cash is also accepted.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS