About Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a branch of traditional medicine that has been practised in China and the far east for thousands of years. It has been developed, tested, researched and refined over this time into a treatment option accessed by increasing numbers of patients in the West.

A growing body of evidence-based clinical research is discovering how the body responds to acupuncture and its benefits for a wide range of common health conditions.

Unlike Western Medicine, acupuncture is a comprehensive approach that treats the underlying causes of illness, rather than just the symptoms.

Five Element acupuncture uses very fine needles and a gentle needling approach to get excellent results. The needles used are eight times finer than a cat whisker and most patients feel a gentle relaxing sensation, rather than any pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can acupuncture treat?

chronic pain (arthritis, fibromyalgia, accidents and injuries, joint pain, migraine headaches)
emotional conditions (anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD)
allergies (seasonal, environmental)
autoimmune conditions
respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis)
skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis, acne)
women’s health concerns (menopausal transition, PMS, infertility)
male reproductive issues
chronic fatigue
addictions (nicotine, alcohol, recreational drugs, caffeine)

Does acupuncture hurt?

In general, acupuncture doesn't hurt at all. Most patients will feel a sensation but as the needles are so fine (1/8 of a cat's whisker) the only real feeling is a tingling or dull ache - this means that the needles are working!

Who can have acupuncture?

There is no limitation in terms of age, sex or condition regarding acupuncture treatment.

The very young or extremely old can be treated.

All types of conditions can be treated – chronic or acute, severe or mild, mental or physical.

Pregnant women are prime candidates for acupuncture and much can be done to promote both ante-natal and post-natal care of mother and baby.

Can I have acupuncture alongside western medicine?

Absolutely - in fact I am finding more and more medical doctors are recommending acupuncture to their patients alongside western treatment. They can complement each other very well.

You must always tell your doctor/s that you are having acupuncture alongside existing treatment.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture has been proven to be very safe in many studies. There are few, if any side effects. The most important thing is to ensure that you see a fully trained acupuncturist who has a 3 year qualification - either a Lic.Ac or Degree.

Physiotherapists and medical doctors/nurses are almost always not fully trained in acupuncture.

How often do I need treatment?

Usually treatments are scheduled weekly. Many patients choose, once the problem has been successfully treated, to attend treatment every two weeks or monthly in order to ensure they stay healthy.

Some patients are lucky and one treatment will be enough! Others will need more to feel relief.