ACUPUNCTURE
If you’re wondering whether acupuncture really works there is a growing body of evidence based clinical research showing that acupuncture can treat a range of health problems. Unfortunately the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) have ruled that acupuncturists can’t claim to treat the long list of conditions that the World Health Organisation have found acupuncture acceptable for, instead we can claim to help treat dental pain, nausea and vomiting, short term relief from tension type headache or migraine headache relief, temporary or short term relief for lower back pain, and provide temporary adjunctive treatment for osteoarthritis knee pain. However I would suggest if you have dental pain you see a dentist first!
NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) decided that acupuncture should be made available on the NHS for chronic lower back pain, which shows that acupuncture is now being seriously considered as part of the health care system in the UK.
What to expect
Your first treatment will always include a consultation to discuss your presenting condition and consider your diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) terms, which will indicate an acupuncture point prescription which specifically meets your requirements. This maybe tweaked or changed at subsequent treatments as necessary.
Acupuncture is a relaxing treatment in which sterile, single use, disposable, ultra-fine needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points around the body, the needles are then left in for 20 to 35 minutes while you relax. Acupuncture doesn’t normally hurt, although you may feel a sensation around the needles. The needles are very fine, it’s not at all like having an injection. Occasionally a bruise may appear, this is nothing to worry about. Following the treatment you may feel tired, if that’s the case take it easy and have a nap or an early night. You will probably find that you sleep better and have a general feeling of wellbeing.
If you have any concerns or queries between treatments you are more than welcome to contact me, without any charge.