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WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture, a modality within Chinese Medicine, involves the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points within meridians (channels) in the body, directing the body to a unique state of flow and harmony.  The body may be disrupted through a number of situations:

  • Physical trauma such as accidents or injuries

  • Poor lifestyle choices and approaches

  • Stress and emotional upsets

  • Lingering infections 

  • Overwork 

 

The goal of treatment is to restore and rebalance our systems, so that the body is supported and directed to our own healing abilities unique to each of us.

Acupuncture treatments may be able to help with a wide range of health issues:

Fertility support

Pregnancy support

Menopausal symptoms

Painful Periods

Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management

Chronic fatigue/ME/fibromyalgia

Cystitis

Hayfever

Headaches & Migraines

Insomnia

Musculoskeletal pain

Skin problems

Cancer treatment support

Claire practices the following styles of Acupuncture: 5 Element Acupuncture, Classical Chinese Acupuncture (Stems & Branches), TCM and may include Cupping, Moxibustion, Guasha in her treatments.

  • Does it work?
    For the most up-to-date research and evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture, please visit the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or Evidence Based Acupuncture websites.
  • Does it hurt?
    Although each patient has a slightly different response, most patients find acupuncture incredibly relaxing. Gentle sensations during the treatment are not uncommon and are totally normal. Patients have commented on a pushing or pulling sensation; a dull ache; a dynamic burst; warmth that radiates; mild tingling; numbness. Some of the needle-phobic patients surprisingly find it a gentle, relaxing and calming experience.
  • Tell me more about the needles
    Acupuncture uses extremely fine, sterile needles that are only slightly thicker than a human hair. Unfortunately the word ‘needle’ has a somewhat negative connotation and I would prefer they were called magic tools to steer & signal the body into balance. Needles may be taken out immediately or left in place for up to 20-30 minutes
  • Difference between dry needling & acupuncture
    Both treatments involve the insertion of fine needles. However aspects of the treatment are completely different, insertion of needling is different as well as practitioner training varies. Dry needling is a physiotherapy led technique used to stimulate trigger points. Acupuncturists have trained for a number of years to fully understand how to use this form of Chinese Medicine technique in a safe and effective manner.
  • How many Treatments are required?
    Based on the consultation, a personalised treatment plan and diagnosis will be created and this will give a more clear idea about the frequency and length of time of treatment.
  • Are there any side effect?
    The risks and side of effects of acupuncture are extremely low and acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments on offer in the U.K . You might experience some mild bruising, a tiny amount of blood at the needle insertion site. Some patients may feel a bit tired or dizzy after treatment, due to nervous system readjustments, but this soon settles. If trigger point work has been done, there may be a temporary soreness which soon subsides.
  • What is Moxibustion?
    This is another one of the pillars of Chinese Medicine and is often used alongside acupuncture. It consists of burning dried mugwort on a particular point or channel on the body. The moxa can either be placed on the needle or a moxa stick may be used manually and gently placed over the point or channel. The pleasant warmth is believed to stimulate the circulation and flow of “qi” and activate the healing process.
  • What is Guasha?
    A Chinese medicine healing technique that involves using a smooth-edged tool to press, rub and scrape the skin in specific areas to promote circulation, release muscle tension and support the body’s natural healing processes.
  • What is Cupping?
    A traditional therapy in Chinese medicine that involves placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum suction. This technique is used to stimulate blood flow and it may help release tension in muscles. Cups used may be made from glass or silicone and there are two types of cupping: fire cupping and suction cupping. Fire cupping uses a small flame to heat inside a glass cup to create a vacuum as the air cools once the cup is placed on the skin. Suction cupping uses a hand pump to create a suction without heat.
  • What is the difference between Classical Acupuncture, 5 element acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
    The primary distinction between these 3 styles of acupuncture lies in their theories, philosophies, diagnostic approaches and treatment focusses. Classical Chinese Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese texts and practices that predate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and often draws directly from the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon). TCM is a relatively recent development of Chinese medicine, standardised by the Chinese government in the 1950’s and it combines ancient theories with structured medical concepts to diagnose patterns of disharmony often addressing symptom driven and may focus on specific ailments. 5 element acupuncture, popularised by J.R. Worsley is rooted in the 5 phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water), a concept found in Classical Chinese texts but emphasised differently based on constitution and emotional states. Similarly in all styles of Chinese medicine, the diagnosis and treatment incorporate pulse and tongue diagnosis but may also use palpation along specific channels.
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BOOK YOUR TREATMENT

To book your treatment, amend or cancel please click below.

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