What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the worlds oldest traditional medicines. It has been practised and developed over thousands of years. Illness and pain occurs in the body when the quality and flow of qi, vital energy has been disrupted. The insertion of needles at specific points affects the qi flowing within the meridian pathways bringing harmony and balance to mind body and spirit.  

How can acupuncture help?

Many people seek help for a specific acute or chronic illness and pain.  Many seek help because they just don't feel quite right, and for others it makes them more resilient to life's challenges. Acupuncture can help with many different conditions from arthritis, anxiety, pain management, migraine, menstrual and hormone imbalance, male and female infertility support, insomnia, COPD and chronic fatigue syndrome to name a few. For a full list and the research behind acupuncture can be found on the British Acupuncture Council website. 

What does it feel like?

The needles are very fine, a little wider than a human hair. They are pre-sterilised, single use and high quality from a reputable manufacturer and supplier. It is common and perfectly normal to feel a sensation when the needles are inserted. This may feel like a little energy pulse or a dull ache. This only lasts for a few seconds and will quickly pass.  Often you may not even feel the needle being inserted, this is normal too. Usually the needles will be left in for a period of time, around 20 minutes before they are removed.

What to expect on a first appointment

Your first appointment is likely to take up to an hour and a half. During this time I will take notes on your previous medical history and your lifestyle, look at your tongue and take the pulses on your wrist. In addition I may use other diagnostic methods such as assessing your posture and range of movement and palpation of the meridians on your arms and legs. I may also have a feel of your tummy. All of these diagnosis procedures will give me an idea of what is happening inside your body. I will decide on the treatment and advise you of how many needles I will be inserting and where they will be placed. For your ease you may wish to wear loose clothing and of course you can ask me questions at any time. My aim is to make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Moxibustion and Cupping

Moxibustion has been used for thousands of years and is a Chinese medicine therapy where moxa, dried mugwort an aromatic herb is burned to warm and strengthen qi in the body.  The moxa is placed on the end of the needle or a moxa box or stick is used over certain areas of the body.  

Cupping is an ancient form of treatment that has been popularised by some elite athletes. Warm cups are applied to the skin, a vaccum is created causing suction. Cupping enhances blood flow to an area and helps to loosen tight muscles.  

Facial enhancement acupuncture

 Facial enhancement acupuncture works on your own natural beauty, balancing and harmonising both your inner and outer self. Fine needles are inserted on specific points and areas of the face to stimulate facial muscles, improve elasticity and encourage blood flow to the area leaving you with a more radiant complexion and improved skin tone. Additional acupuncture points on your arms and legs are used to balance, leaving you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.  I am a registered FEA practitioner. For best results a course of treatments is recommended.