Who has traditional acupuncture?
Many people use acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or conditions. Others choose acupuncture as a preventive measure to strengthen their constitution or because they just generally feel unwell. Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages including babies, children and the elderly. It can be effective when integrated with conventional medicine.
Does it hurt?
Our experience of needles is usually limited to injections and blood tests, so many people are frightened of the concept of acupuncture. Acupuncture needles are much finer than conventional medical needles.
Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing. Patients often describe the needle sensation as a tingling or dull ache. This is one of the signs the body's qi, or vital energy, has been stimulated.
Is it safe?
Yes, if practiced by an accredited practitioner. Acupuncture rarely has side effects making it particularly helpful, for example, for women who are pregnant. Safety is a major strength of acupuncture treatment. Occasionally there may be minor bruising at the needle point or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms as your qi clears and resettles.
How many sessions will I need?
There are a number of factors to consider when answering this question including the nature of the condition as well as how deep or longstanding it is. Often a noticeable improvement is made within 3-4 weeks. You may start to feel benefits after the first or second treatment although long-standing and chronic conditions usually need more time to improve. Some conditions, such as those related to periods or fertility require longer to see results. Other chronic conditions such as MS may require regular but less frequent treatments to minimise symptoms.
What can acupuncture do for me?
Acupuncture is widely considered to be beneficial for a range of illnesses and symptoms, from clearly defined complaints such as headaches, vomiting, neck ache, and back and dental pain, through to more general feelings of ill health such as nausea or low energy. Acupuncture is often used in the treatment of a variety of conditions and in conjunction with western medicine. Increasingly women are choosing to have acupuncture to support them throughout pregnancy, labour and after giving birth.
Should I tell my doctor that I'm having acupuncture?
If you are currently receiving treatment from your doctor it is sensible to mention that you plan to have acupuncture. Your acupuncturist will need to know about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.
Should I still take my prescribed medication while I'm having a course of acupuncture?
Yes. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication but you should always consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription.
