Acupuncture, what to expect.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair thin, sterile, single use needles into different areas of the body. The needles can be inserted almost anywhere in the body but we avoid the genitals, the breasts or any area which may be particularly sensitive for the patient.

The needles are generally left in for 30 to 40 minutes and then removed. Surgical spirits is used before needle insertion and after needle removal for hygiene reasons. We may combine the acupuncture with an infra-red lamp, Tuina massage or Chinese herbal medicine depending on the patients presentation.

How exactly does the acupuncture work? What is it doing? From a Chinese Medicine perspective, the needles are stimulating points on channels or meridians which flow through the body. Each channel is linked to an organ and each acupuncture point has a specific function. It is through Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture training that your practitioner can formulate your individual acupuncture prescription.

From a physiological perspective, is the acupuncture stimulating the nervous system, the fascial system or the vascular system? I would say all of the above. The aim of acupuncture is to restore homeostasis, to promote relaxation, to assist in pain relief etc.

Acupuncture is not a suitable therapy for someone experiencing a medical emergency. If you are concerned that you may be experiencing a life altering event e.g. chest pain, unexplained and unexpected bleeding etc, please consult your medical professional as a matter of urgency.