| Frequently Asked Questions |
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture very comfortable. Sometimes a mild sensation of tingling, dullness or heaviness can be felt, but this should not be painful. We have adopted the use of particularly fine, top quality needles together with only mild stimulation techniques as is common in Japanese styles of Acupuncture.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is a very safe form of therapy when carried out by appropriately trained practitioners. As British Acupuncture Council members, we are bound by a Code of Safe Practise, approved by the Department of Health, defining hygiene and safety standards.
Can I claim acupuncture on my health insurance policy?
You will need to check the particular scheme that you belong to. Most major schemes, such as Westfield, will reimburse, when acupuncture is given by a British Acupuncture Council member.
Why choose traditional acupuncture?
Traditional acupuncture is such a valuable mode of treatment because it can deal with a wide range of problems. With it we can treat, mental, emotional and physical disorders. What is more we can do this simultaneously. Patients will normally come with a particular problem of more pressing need (e.g. shoulder pain or anxiety), but will also often have some background complaints (e.g. indigestion, IBS, chronic headache). Because of the holistic nature of traditional acupuncture all of these problems tend to respond at the same time. In other words, not only do your troubling symptoms clear up, but you also feel better in a number of other ways, from increased sleep to improved energy levels and a greater sense of wellbeing.
How many treatments will I need?
Response to treatment varies from person to person. In general the longer that you have had a problem (the more chronic) then the longer it will take to treat. Acute problems, say under 6 months duration will generally respond very quickly. For instance: a patient with pain in the shoulder after wrenching it 1 month ago may need as few as 2 or 3 sessions whereas a patient who has had backache for the last 10 years will more than likely need at least 10 –12 sessions (although they might start to feel the benefits after the first treatment or two). It is also normal for very deficient people, e.g. those who may be very run down through long stress or illness, to take longer to recover.
How often should I come for treatment?
Most people come on a weekly basis to start with, then later on when feeling well enough, may reduce their visits to fortnightly, monthly, yearly or whatever suits. For some people twice a week is better for the initial few appointments if they can manage it.
Is it all-right to have acupuncture when I am on medication?
This is, generally speaking, not a problem. You will always be asked about your medication on your first visit. Acupuncture will often help to ameliorate the side effects of your medication but does not interfere with it. If you are currently having medical treatment then it makes sense to tell your doctor, most will be happy for you to try acupuncture.
What about acupuncture needles?
All needles are pre-sterilised and pre-packaged. They are used only once and then disposed of. The needles that we use are a fraction of a millimetre in diameter (typically 0.12 to 0.22mm) and they are of top quality allowing for easy insertion. The needles are made of solid stainless steel –nothing is injected – and tiny by comparison to hypodermics.
What if I can't afford treatment?
For those on a limited budget or who need a lot of treatment, self acupressure can be taught. Acupressure, when used dilligently, is a very powerful tool and can help to cut down your overall number of visits to the acupuncturist. In addition to this, dietary and other life style advice may be given.