How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your individual condition. At first your acupuncturist will normally ask to see you once or twice a week. You may start to feel benefits after the first or second treatment although long-standing and chronic conditions usually need more time to improve. Once your health has stabilised you may need top-up treatments every few weeks. Traditional acupuncture is also very effective when used as preventive healthcare, and many people like to go for a ‘retuning’ session every month, or at the change of each season throughout the year.
Do I need to take off all my clothes?
No. Occasionally points on the back, upper chest or abdomen may be used and it will be necessary to remove the outer layers of clothing, but the majority of commonly-used acupuncture points are on the hands and arms, and feet and lower legs. Therefore treatments may often involve just removing shoes and socks.
Is it safe for babies, children and teenagers?
Yes. Children and adolescents usually respond very well to acupuncture. Many acupuncturists specialise in paediatric care.
What does it feel like?
Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing. Patients often describe the needle sensation as a tingling or dull ache. This is one of the signs the body’s qi, or vital energy, has been stimulated.
I'm scared of needles -
Can I still have acupuncture?
Acupuncture needles are much finer than the needles used for injections and blood tests. You may not even feel them penetrate the skin and once in place they are hardly noticeable.
What should I do before a treatment?
Try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse, and you may need to lie on your stomach. You should also avoid alcohol and food or drink that colours your tongue such as coffee or strong tea. It is a good idea to wear loose-fitting clothes so that the acupuncture points, especially those on your lower limbs, are easily accessible. It would also be helpful if you could provide the names and dosages of any medication you are currently taking.
How will I feel after a treatment?
You are likely to feel relaxed and calm. If the treatment has been particularly strong you may feel tired or drowsy and it is worth bearing this in mind if you plan to drive or use any other machinery soon afterwards. You should refrain from vigorous exercise after treatment and, ideally, give yourself a little time to rest. It is also advisable not to drink alcohol for several hours after treatment.
Are there any unpleasant side effects?
Acupuncture has virtually no unpleasant side effects. Any that do occur are mild and self-correcting. Occasionally there may be minor bruising at the needle point or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms as your qi clears and resettles. Chinese massage techniques (such as Gua Sha) can sometimes temporarily mark the skin. Such bruising is painless and generally clears within a day or two.
Should I tell my doctor that I'm having acupuncture?
If you are currently receiving treatment from your doctor it is sensible to mention that you plan to have acupuncture. Your acupuncturist will need to know about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.
Should I still take my prescribed medication while I'm having a course of acupuncture?
Yes. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication but you should ALWAYS consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription. DO NOT stop taking medication without professional guidance.
What are your qualifications?
I am a pre-qualifying intern practitioner in the last six months of the third year of my honours degree level training and have received permission to practice under indirect supervision. This means my treatment records are subject to scrutiny by supervisors who are fully qualified members of the British Acupuncture Council. I am fully insured, and my course is accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board, covering acupuncture theory, clinical skills, point location, conventional medical sciences, research and professional development.