Ruth Irving
BA (Hons), Dip Ac, MBAcC

 

Pam Sumner
Lic.Ac, BA Hons, MBAcC


Acupuncture needles being used on
foot and shoulder for...

Tools of the trade!

 
         
   


What is Traditional Acupuncture?
Traditional acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient principles which go back nearly two thousand years. It has a very positive model of good health and function, and looks at pain and illness as signs that the body is out of balance. The overall aim of acupuncture treatment, then, is to restore the body's equilibrium. What makes this system so uniquely suited to modern life is that physical, emotional and mental are seen as interdependent, and reflect what many people perceive as the connection between the different aspects their lives.

The underlying principle of treatment is that illness and pain occur when the body's qi, or vital energy, cannot flow freely. There can be many reasons for this; emotional and physical stress, poor nutrition, infection or injury, are among the most common. By inserting ultra-fine sterile needles into specific acupuncture points, a traditional acupuncturist seeks to re-establish the free flow of qi to restore balance and trigger the body's natural healing response.

There are many different styles of acupuncture which share a common root but are distinct and different in their emphasis. The main style practised at North Lakes Clinic is Five Elements which addresses the totality of the patient’s needs at any one time. The needling technique is closer to Japanese with more shallow insertion and generally less sensation experienced by the patient than with some other styles. Other Chinese medicine techniques which may be used are moxibustion, gua sha and auricular acupuncture.

How can Traditional Acupuncture help?
Acupuncture is widely considered to be beneficial for a range of illnesses and symptoms, from clearly defined complaints to more general feelings of ill health and low energy such as: arthritic pain, fatigue, infertility, musculoskeletal conditions, neurological disorders, urinary tract disorders, headaches and women’s health.

What to expect at your acupuncture treatment
During your first visit I will need to gain a thorough understanding of your main complaint and your general health and lifestyle. This involves asking questions about your current symptoms and your medical history, as well as such things as your sleeping pattern, your appetite and digestion, and your emotional wellbeing. Women are also asked about their menstrual cycle and any past pregnancies and childbirth.

You might feel that some questions appear unrelated to your condition but the information you give helps to form a more complete picture of your health and lifestyle. I will also take your pulse on both wrists and examine your tongue and may feel for areas of muscular tension or pain.

I use very fine single-use pre-sterilised needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points on your body. Because energy meridians range across the whole body, the points used are not necessarily close to where you experience pain or discomfort. 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. Also try not to come for treatment on an empty stomach or straight after a heavy meal.

The first treatment session will take approximately 90 mins, subsequent treatments last up to an hour.

How will you feel during and after treatment
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 are planning to drive or use heavy machinery straight after your treatment.

You should refrain from vigorous exercise after treatment and, ideally, give yourself a little time to rest. 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. Gua sha can sometimes temporarily mark the skin. Such bruising is painless and generally clears within a day or two.

How many treatments will I need?
That depends on your individual condition. At first, treatment will normally be weekly. You may start to feel benefits after the first or second treatment although long-standing and chronic conditions usually need more time to improve. Once your health has stabilised you may need top-up treatments every few weeks. Traditional acupuncture is also very effective when used as preventive healthcare and many people like to go for a 'retuning' session at the change of each season throughout the year..

Who has traditional acupuncture?
Many people use acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or conditions. Others choose acupuncture as a preventive measure to strengthen their constitution or because they just feel generally unwell. Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages including babies, children and the elderly. It can be very effective when integrated with conventional medicine.

How much will it cost?
The initial consultation and treatment lasts approximately 90 minutes and costs £45. Subsequent treatment sessions which can last for up to one hour cost £32.

How do I find out about Traditional Acupuncture?
For general information, the British Acupuncture Council has a comprehensive website.