What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a complete healthcare system of Traditional Chinese Medicine over 3000 years old. It views pain and illness as a sign that the body is out of balance and seeks to restore good health through rebalancing the body's vital energy (Qi).

Further to detailed physiological and pathopysiolgical assessments, the patient is treated by the insertion of ultra fine, sterile needles at specific points around the body to re-establish the flow of Qi and trigger a natural healing response.

Because acupuncture is holistic in approach and looks at each person individually rather than focussing on symptoms alone, treatment often differs from patient to patient regardless of the presenting condition. This means that each individual receives the best treatment for them as a whole and as treatment progresses, typically patients begin to notice a greatly enhanced feeling of wellbeing and vitality as well as a reduction of symptoms.

Does Acupuncture Work?

The quick answer is yes. There is a growing body of evidence based clinical research showing that acupuncture works and acupuncture is recognised by the World Health Organisation as a valid and effective form of treatment for a wide range of illnesses as proven through controlled clinical trials. Acupuncture is also recommended as the treatment of choice for headaches by the National Institute Of Clinical Excellence (NICE), which determines best practice policy for the UK healthcare system. Furthermore, acupuncture treatment is recognised and covered by most major health insurance providers*.

Is acupuncture suitable for me?

Acupuncture is extremely safe and may be useful in alleviating a wide range of conditions. As such it is generally suitable for most people. As it has very few side effects acupuncture can be used on frail and elderly patients and children. It is particularly suitable for patients who prefer not to take large amounts of medication as well as those with which orthodox medicine has not had much success. Acupuncture is also great for supporting people who suffer from chronic conditions.

Acupuncture may be used to support conditions such as:

• Pain management e.g. sports injuries, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, migraine, etc
• Gynaecological conditions such as period pain, PMS, endometriosis etc
• Hormonal imbalances
• Circulation problems e.g. varicose veins
• Vertigo
• Digestive difficulties 
• Infertility, either as a stand alone therapy or as a support treatment in conjunction with IVF / IUI\
• Conditions of pregnancy and during childbirth
• Rehabilitation e.g. after a stroke or surgery
• Chronic conditions such as MS, ME, and cancer
• Stress management
• Psycho emotional disorders such as depression, anxiety and mood swings
• Addictions
• Aesthetic treatments e.g. non surgical facelifts

 *Depending on type of policy and provider - please check with your insurer to confirm if you are covered.