Who has acupuncture?

Many people have acupuncture to relieve specific aches and pains, such as osteoarthritis of the knee, headaches and low back pain, or for common health problems like an overactive bladder. Other people choose acupuncture when their body systems are out of balance, even though they have no obvious diagnosis. Some choose to have regular treatment just because they find it beneficial and relaxing. Pregnant women commonly use acupuncture for support throughout their pregnancy.

 

How can acupuncture help me?

Acupuncture is considered to be beneficial for a wide range of conditions. Whatever your particular problem, because treatment is designed to affect your whole body and not just your symptoms, you may notice other niggling complaints also get better with a course of treatment. Keith will be happy to offer a free chat about how acupuncture can help you.

 

What will happen when I go for acupuncture?

Keith will take your medical history, read your pulses, may examine the site of your symptoms, and may look at your tongue. Your individual treatment plan will be based on your state of health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will decide which combination of points is right for your whole body as well as your symptoms. Sometimes acupuncture needles are inserted for just a second or two, or you may be left to rest for a while before the needles are removed. The single-use sterile needles come in sealed packs that can be opened in front of you and are safely disposed of after each treatment.

 

What do acupuncture needles feel like?

Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people don’t feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as your acupuncturist adjusts the needle. Many people feel deeply relaxed during the treatment.

 

How many treatments will I need?

Weekly sessions are quite usual to begin with, for perhaps five or six treatments, reducing in frequency as your body responds. Keith will discuss with you during treatment how often you should come for acupuncture. 

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Does acupuncture work?

Evidence of acupuncture’s effectiveness is growing and researchers are finding new ways of measuring the body’s responses. To date the main focus of research has been on pain management. You can find out more about the latest acupuncture research at www.acupuncture.org.uk

 

Is acupuncture safe?

Definitive surveys in the UK and Germany concluded that when practised by properly trained qualified traditional acupuncturists, the risk of serious adverse events from acupuncture is extremely low.  Your Acupuncturist should have done a minimum of 3 years training at a reputable College or University.

 

Are there any side effects?

Sometimes a small bruise may appear when a needle is removed. Occasionally, people can feel dizzy or tired for a brief time after treatment.

 

Should I tell my doctor I’m having acupuncture?

If you have been prescribed medication we recommend you tell your doctor that you plan to have acupuncture. Do not stop taking your medication. You should tell your acupuncturist about any medication and supplements you are taking. Properly qualified acupuncturists are trained to recognise potentially serious underlying health conditions and will refer you to your GP if appropriate.

 

How much does acupuncture cost?

Treatment charges vary around the country and between practitioners and clinics. Please feel free to contact the Church St Practice or email Keith to check prices before booking.

 

Does the NHS recommend acupuncture?

Acupuncture on the NHS is recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for migraines and headaches, and by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) for chronic pain, including low back pain and knee pain. However acupuncture treatment on the NHS is scarce. 

 

Will my health insurance pay for acupuncture?

Some health policies now cover treatment with AAC registered acupuncturists so check with your insurer.