Acupuncture is one of the longest established forms of healthcare in the world. Acupuncturists are trained to use subtle diagnostic techniques that have been developed and refined for thousands of years.

Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of very fine single-use, pre-sterilised needles into specific points on the body to affect the flow of your body’s qi, or vital energy. In this time and age daily stresses, lifestyle choices and injury upset our natural balance and lead to physical and emotional symptoms.  The overall aim of the treatment is to restore the body's equilibrium.  All symptoms are seen in relation to each other so by identifying the root cause of the symptoms and treat the body as a whole we encourage the body to promote natural healing and improve functioning which then creates balance and improves patients’ overall physical and mental well-being.

The Treatment

Before the treatment
A few things to have in mind

• Many commonly used acupuncture points are located on the lower arms and legs, so it is helpful to wear clothing that allows easy access to these areas. 
•  Try not to go for treatment on an empty stomach or straight after a heavy meal.
•  Do let your practitioner know if you are completely new to acupuncture so they can take extra time to explain what happens and ensure you are comfortable with the process.

During treatment
For you to get the best treatment for you I will need to gain a thorough understanding of your main complaint and general health and lifestyle. This involves asking questions about your general health, medical history (operations, medications and conditions) and information about your symptoms, sleep pattern, diet, digestion and other lifestyle factors. You might feel that some questions appear unrelated to your condition but it all helps to form a more complete picture of your health and lifestyle.  

I will need to take your pulse on both wrists and may examine your tongue and feel for areas of muscular tension or pain. This will give important information to aid diagnosis and treatment.

Based on the information from the consultation I will make a diagnosis and put together a treatment plan. This may include lifestyle and dietary advice as well as acupuncture and maybe additional treatments (see additional treatments).
 

The needling
Very fine single-use pre-sterilised needles will be used to stimulate specific acupuncture points on your body. Energy meridians range across the whole body, the points used are not necessarily close to where you experience pain or discomfort. For example, if you suffer from headaches needles might be inserted in your foot or hand.

After-effects
Most people find acupuncture relaxing and often feel very calm after a treatment. You may feel a little tired or sleepy and should take this into account if you have a big day. It is also advisable not to drink alcohol for several hours after treatment.
Acupuncture has very few side effects and any that do occur are usually mild and self-correcting. Cupping and guasha can sometimes temporarily mark the skin. Such bruising is painless and generally clears within a day or two.