What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a complementary medicine in which fine needles are inserted in the skin at specific points along what are considered to be lines of energy (meridians). It is used in the treatment of various physical and mental conditions.
What does Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can be beneficial for a range of common ailments. It is known to have good results on:
- neck pain
- osteoarthritis of the knee
- TMJ (jaw pain)
- low back pain
- or for common health problems like an overactive bladder.
Do I need to do anything before treatment?
Try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse, and you may need to lie on your stomach. You should also avoid alcohol and food or drink that colours your tongue such as coffee or strong tea.
It is a good idea to wear loose-fitting clothes so that the Acupuncture points, especially those on your lower limbs, are easily accessible.
Is Acupuncture painful and how will I feel after treatment?
It is neither painless nor very painful. The sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache. Everyone is different and therefore may feel this stronger or weaker than others may. Unlike needles used in injections, Acupuncture needles are very fine therefore; the level of pain is much less. You may also experience heaviness in limbs as well as a deep feeling of relaxation.
After treatment you usually feel calm, relaxed, and in some cases tired. If there is a flare up in your symptoms, this may be due to the Qi clearing the affected channels, before settling down again and should not worry you. Always contact the clinic if you have any concerns.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Pippa is a member of the British Acupuncture Council and as such has undergone extensive training in:
- Acupuncture and Bio Medical Sciences, appropriate to the practice of Acupuncture in the UK
- Codes of Safe Practice
- Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures
Approved by the Department of Health, these ensure professionalism and safety.
Members are covered by full Medical Malpractice and Public Liability Insurance.
All needles, where used, are pre-sterilised, single use and disposable to provide protection against infectious disease.
Is Acupuncture regulated by the Government?
The Department of Health has put forward proposals for statutory regulation of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.
Should I tell my doctor I am receiving Acupuncture treatment?
If you are already receiving treatment from your doctor then it makes sense to tell him or her about your plans to have Acupuncture. You should always tell your Acupuncturist about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to Acupuncture treatment.
Nothing in this website should be taken as a claim to treat any specific condition.