Information

What is Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a system of natural healing that has been used successfully by a large section of the world's population for upwards of 3,000 years. Although its origins are ancient, it is subject to continuous review and is as beneficial today as it was to the early oriental cultures. It is probably the most sought after complimentary treatment in the world today.

According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy-known as Qi {chi} - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels called meridians beneath the skin. The Qi can become stagnant or blocked and in time create symptoms of ill health.

The aim of acupuncture is to regulate the meridians or channels of the body to unblock the stagnation of energy {Qi}. It is a principle of Chinese medicine that disease is caused as a direct result of these energy blockages within the body.

When the practitioner carefully inserts the fine stainless steel needles into the skin you may feel a slight tingling sensation, this is known as the "needle sensation". This is when the treatment is beginning to have effect.

The needles are either put in for only a second or two or left in place for up to 20 minutes, depending on the treatment given. During this time patients often experience a feeling of relaxation.

Can It Help You

Below are some of the problems and diseases commonly treated by acupuncture.

More and more people are becoming aware that acupuncture does not only relieve pain but that it can treat a wide variety of problems including some for which western medicine has no diagnosis and no treatment. The list of commonly treated conditions is not complete. If you cannot see your complaint on the list and would like to find out more, phone or email for a chat or advice, to see whether your problem can be helped.

Benefits

The benefits frequently include more than just relief from a particular condition. Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels, better appetite and sleep as well as an enhanced sense of well-being.

In traditional acupuncture, each person is considered unique and therefore the number of treatments required depends on the individual, and the type of condition. As a general rule patients see changes within only a few sessions. Your practitioner will discuss this with you at the consultation.

There are around 500 recognised acupuncture points on the body of which about 100 are most commonly used. Stimulation of specific areas on the skin affects the functioning of certain organs in the body. However, those areas may not be close to the part of the body where the problem is experienced. For example, although you may suffer from headaches, needles may be inserted in your hand or foot.

The acupuncturist may supplement the needle treatment with moxa - a smouldering herb that is used to warm acupuncture points to encourage the body's energy to flow smoothly. Other methods of stimulating acupuncture points include lasers, or electro acupuncture devices.

Members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) have completed a thorough training of at least 3 years in Traditional Acupuncture and western medical sciences appropriate to the practice of acupuncture. Then carry the letters MBAcC after their name. The BAcC maintains common standard of education, ethics, discipline and practice to ensure the health and safety of the public at all times.