How many Treatments will I need?
This varies according to your main complaint. Acute symptoms can often be cleared in a few treatments where as chronic conditions may take longer. Most patients begin to feel benefits after 5 – 6 treatments, and for others it may only take one. Treatments generally build on from each other, to keep the momentum going it is important to come once or twice a week for your first few sessions. There after patients may start coming fortnightly to monthly.
Can I have preventative treatment if I don’t have a complaint?
Yes. Many patients have regular treatment to maintain optimum health and prevent illness. Health is recognized in Chinese medicine as not merely the absence of symptoms and disease but reaching ones potential and feeling balanced on all levels. Regular treatment can help people to feel well in themselves and live life with a greater sense of ease and happiness.
How long are the needles left in?
Usually the needles are left in for approximately 20 minutes. However at the end of treatment it is common for some points to be needled where the needles are left in for only a matter of seconds.
How many needles will be used?
The number of needles used per session can be anything from 2 to 12 depending on your complaint. For muscular skeleton problems it is common to use more needles. For conditions where a person feels very tired and weak it is usual to use less needles.
How will I feel after treatment?
Most of my patients report feeling relaxed or like they are ‘floating on air’. You may find you have an increase in energy after treatment but its important to take it easy so that the energy can be used for your healing. Sometimes patients can initially feel tired after treatment whilst the body is re-balancing. Generally people start to notice improvements in sleep and a greater sense of relaxation and well being.
Is it painful?
Patients describe the needle sensation as being like a dull ache, numbness, tingling or a sensation of heat which last a few seconds once the needle has been inserted and reached the point. Very occasionally there is more sensation, this is often a sign there is a blockage of Qi. Once the needles are in they are not uncomfortable and patients often fall asleep or are deeply relaxed.
How deep do the needles go?
Most commonly the depth is about quarter to half an inch depending on what part of the body the point is on.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. Acupuncture is very safe and I adhere to a strict code of practice. All needles are single use and come in sterilized packages. Each needle is disposed of in a sharps box after use and every patient treated with the highest standard of care and cleanliness. Mild reactions occasionally occur such as feeling slightly light headed or very small bruising.
Can I have acupuncture whilst on medication?
Yes. It is safe to have acupuncture in conjunction with conventional treatments.
Will I need to undress?
Most of the time it is not necessary to remove clothing especially if you come wearing loose fitting clothes. However should it be necessary there are blankets available for your discretion.
Is it confidential?
Yes. I adhere to a strict code of professional conduct and all information shared is completely confidential.
Do I have to believe in it for it to work?
Whether you believe in acupuncture or not you can still benefit from its effects. It can help if patients come to treatment with a certain amount of confidence in it, having said that some skeptics have been really amazed and pleased with how treatment has positively effected them.
If you still have questions please don’t hesitate to get in contact.