So What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the longest established forms of healthcare in the world.
Acupuncturists are trained to use subtle diagnostic techniques that have been developed and refined for thousands of years. It is used and accepted worldwide, and more and more people in the UK are discovering how Acupuncture can benefit them.
Acupuncturists believe the underlying principle of treatment is that illness and pain occur when the bodies Qi, vital energy, cannot flow freely. There can be many reasons for this: emotional stress, poor nutrition, infection and injury are among the most common.
By inserting ultra fine needles into specific acupuncture points, acupuncturists seek to re-establish a free flow of this energy to regain balance and trigger the bodies natural healing responses.
With Acupuncture increasing in popularity, Jenny sees a wide range of people. Common reasons for treatment include:
-
Pain management - (e.g. back and joint pain – Arthritis & Rheumatism)
-
Headaches/Migraines
-
Digestive complaints (e.g. diarrhoea, constipation, IBS)
-
Wellbeing & Emotional issues (e.g. stress, grief, anger & depression/anxiety)
-
Sleep problems
-
Gynaecological Issues, including Menstrual and menopausal symtoms
-
Pregnancy support
-
Respiratory issues (eg Asthma, Allergies such as hay fever)
What should you expect?
Jenny will use many diagnostic methods to put together an individual treatment based on your state of heath and lifestyle. This includes a complete medical questionnaire prior to your appointment, and a brief face to face consultation, pulse diagnosis and tongue examination to build a holistic view of your health.
Jenny will make a selection of acupuncture points for your treatment. Single use sterile needles will be inserted. These are from sealed packs which will be opened in front of you and which are disposed of after each treatment. Once the needles are in, you will be left to rest for up to 20 mins before they are removed.
What does it feel like?
Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people don’t feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as acupuncturist adjusts the needle. Many people feel extremely relaxed during the treatment.
Sometimes you may get a small bruise at the site of the needle. Occasionally people can feel dizzy or tired after treatment, but this passes quickly.
How many sessions will you need?
This varies from person to person. Weekly or bi-weekly treatments are normal to begin with. As your symptoms begin to improve, your treatments will begin to get further apart. The effects are usually felt within 4-6 treatments, however this does vary from person to person. Jenny will discuss this with you and answer any questions you have during or prior to your first treatment.