What is Acupuncture?

It involves inserting very fine needles into the skin at specific points called acupuncture points. These points lie on channels or meridians within the body, and many points have specific functions for helping various conditions.

What will a session involve?
You will undergo a discussion about your symptoms followed by a diagnosis. This will include questions about your general well-being and will be followed by acupuncture treatment. As part of the assessment process you will be asked to show your tongue and have both pulses felt on your wrists.

Will it be painful?
No. The needles are inserted quickly into the skin using a guide-tube. The needles themselves are extremely fine. This is usually painless, but can occasionally give a very minor pin-prick sensation only. Once the needles are inserted there is no pain associated with acupuncture treatment.

What will I feel?
The acupuncture sensation is very different from pricking yourself with a needle! Once the needle is inserted it will be manipulated to give you a sensation that can vary from a dull ache, a tingle or a sensation of heat. Some patients don't feel much sensation at all.

Is it safe?
High standards of hygiene are maintained at all times. The needles are sterile and are single-use only.

How far do the needles go?
This depends on the part of the body into which they are inserted -but typically only 0.5 - 1cm. Needles are left in place for 10 - 20 minutes during which time you will be able to relax and rest.

How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the condition and how long you have had it for. A typical course of treatments would be anywhere from one to 12 sessions.

Will I be offered any other treatment?
A herb called 'moxa' is sometimes used to warm acupuncture points. I may also use acupressure massage, which helps to stimulate the points without needles. For very persistent problems, electro-acupuncture may be used.

What are the side effects?
These are very few. Sometimes patients can feel sleepy or extremely tired after their treatment; occasionally the needle site can develop a small bruise that resolves very quickly.