Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with a claimed 5000 year written history. According to TCM, health depends on the smooth flow of Qi, or energy. Qi circulates through the body in a network of channels known as meridians. When energy is not flowing smoothly there are health problems. Acupuncture needles inserted at specific points along the meridians can rebalance the Qi and restore health.

Who can benefit?

Acupuncture can help many health problems including arthritis, asthma, back and shoulder pain, headaches, high blood pressure, reproductive problems and skin conditions. It can also help depression and sleeplessness, and may be used to strengthen the constitution generally. Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with western medical treatments. However, both your doctor and your Acupuncturist should be told of the other treatments you are receiving.

What does it feel like?

The hypodermic needles used for injections and blood tests are tubes because they have to carry liquids. Acupuncture needles are solid and therefore much finer than the hollow needles. When such a fine needle is inserted the sensation is of a slight tingling or dull ache.
Needles may be inserted and immediately removed, or left in place for up to 20 minutes depending on the effect required. During treatment most patients feel relaxed. Sometimes a treatment can use Moxa, rather than needles. Moxa is a herb that can be burnt when rolled into a 'cigar' and used to warm the skin.

How often will I need treatment?

Every individual is unique. As a result the number of recommended treatments will vary with each person and their problem. However, experience has shown that something like a frozen shoulder can benefit after only one treatment, while a long standing problem like arthritis will require a course of treatments.