EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ACUPUNCTURE
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which has been used for thousands of years. Today, traditional acupuncture is considered one of the most popular forms of complementary medicine used worldwide.
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How does it work?
Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. Fine needles are inserted at certain sites in the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. It is used in many NHS GP practices, as well as in most pain clinics. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles which also encourages blood flow to the area to promote healing. The body produces substances such as pain-relieving endorphins.
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Traditional acupuncture is based on energy flows through the body in channels called meridians. This energy flow is known as Qi (pronounced “chee"). Tradition believes that it is when this energy is blocked, that ill health and disease develop. Acupuncture works to aid the flow of this energy. When our energy lines are balanced, we are able to maintain good health and well-being. The key focus for Chinese acupuncture is that it focuses on the individual, not the illness.
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What acupuncture helps?
Emotional or physical stress, poor nutrition, infection or injury are the most common causes of ill heath. Acupuncture has been known to help most ailments including the following most common symptoms;
NATURAL PAIN RELIEF - STRESS & ANXIETY
MIGRAINES & HEADACHES - JOINT PROBLEMS
MUSCULAR TENSION - IBS
POOR BLOOD CIRCULATION - PERIOD PAINS
MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS - BACK PAIN
NAUSEA - ECZEMA
DENTAL PAIN - CHRONIC PAIN
INSOMNIA
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Will I experience any side effects?
Acupuncture is very safe when carried out by a qualified and experienced practitioner. Rarely, some people experience mild, short-term side effects such as:
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mild pain where the needles puncture the skin
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bleeding or bruising where the needles puncture the skin
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drowsiness after the treatment
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How many treatments will I need?
A treatment plan will be outlined to you based on the practitioners findings after the initial consultation.
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After Care
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If an area that you had treated is a bit tender or sore, place a wrapped ice pack on it for a few minutes.
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Drink plenty of water as you may feel dehydrated.
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Try to do as little physical activity as possible on the day of your treatment.
24 hours after the treatment the treated area may still feel a bit sore. 48 hours after the treatment you should feel the optimal results from the treatment.