What to expect from treatment

What happens when I go for treatment?

Your first appointment with me is a bit longer than usual, lasting about 1.5 hours. Most of this time will be spent talking about the reason you are coming for acupuncture treatment and about your health generally (including diet, sleep, energy, digestion and so on). We will also talk a bit about your medical history and the health of your close family, and any other treatment you may be receiving or have received.

I will also ask to look at your tongue briefly and feel your pulses on both wrists, as these give me extra information about the state of your vital energy, and are an important part of making a traditional diagnosis.

My aim is to gather as much information as I can to make an accurate diagnosis so that I can tailor the treatment to you, and make it as effective as possible.

Subsequent sessions will be shorter, lasting up to an hour.

Treatment itself involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body, these are not always close to the area where you experience the problem. For example, if you suffer from headaches, points may be used on the arms or legs. The number of needles used will vary from person to person, but I always try to keep the number to a minimum - you won't resemble a pin cushion!

Is it safe?

Yes, acupuncture has a very sound track record. The needles used are single-use, sterile and disposable. Sometimes you may feel a little tired or slightly light-headed after treatment, this is a completely normal response and is nothing to worry about. Occasionally there may be minor bruising where a needle has been inserted. However, all such reactions are short-lived and most people report feeling relaxed during and after treatment.

What does it feel like?

Acupuncture needles are much finer than needles used for injections and blood tests. When the needle is inserted, the sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache which is often momentary, and is usually replaced by a feeling of deep relaxation.

How many sessions will I need?

Frequency and length of treatment will depend on your individual condition. Some improvement is usually felt after five or six treatments, although occasionally only one or two treatments are required. It is usually best to start having treatment weekly at first, but this can also vary and is something that we will discuss at your first session. Many people come for acupuncture to maintain their health and well-being, and have treatments every four to six weeks.

If you have any questions about treatment or would like to discuss whether acupuncture would be suitable for you, please call me or come in to see me for a free 20 minute chat.