FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR ACUPUNCTURE
Why have Acupuncture?
Often people try acupuncture to address a specific problem that has not responded to other treatments, or because they do not feel as well as they should do. Acupuncture can act as a treatment and a preventative therapy, as it treats you as a whole person rather than just your symptoms.
Acupuncture is usually suitable for all ages, including babies, children, teenagers, people with fertility issues, pregnant women and elderly people. Any contraindications will be checked for in the initial consultation and discussed with you.
How does Acupuncture fit with conventional medicine?
Acupuncture is considered safe for all ages and can be used alongside conventional medicine. It seen as a 'complementary medicine' and as such can be used as an adjunct to Western medical treatment.
For some people, improving symptoms in order to reduce prescription medicine is a major consideration and this may be done in consultation with your Doctor or consultant.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
This will depend on your condition; chronic conditions can take longer to improve. You should start to notice improvements in around 4-5 sessions.
If you are coming for help with sub-fertility, a course of treatment may take much longer than this as underlying problems may also need to be addressed. Be prepared for a minimum of 3 months.
Treatments are usually once or twice a week to begin with, becoming less frequent as improvement is made. Often long term benefits can be maintained with a 'top up' treatment every 6-8 weeks.
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, and patients often describe the needle sensation as a tingling or dull ache.
If you have a fear of needles, it may be possible to treat you with acupressure, please ask.
Do I Need To Prepare For My Treatment?
Avoid eating a large meal an hour before treatment and avoid alcohol immediately before and after treatment.
How Will I Feel After Treatment?
You are likely to feel relaxed and calm, possibly tired or drowsy. There are virtually no unpleasant side effects, but occasionally there may be minor bruising at the needle point, or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms.