It is natural for some people to feel intimidated the first time they have acupuncture. This section aims to address many of the common questions. You are most welcome to contact me if you don’t find the answer that you are looking for here.
Is acupuncture safe?
When practiced by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is generally a very safe therapy with any side effects usually mild and transient. Beneficial effects of the acupuncture treatment usually significantly outweigh the mild side effects.
Drowsiness can occur in a small number of patients, and if affected, you are advised not to drive until you feel able.
Does it hurt?
As the needles are so fine (less than 1/5th of a millimetre) many people do not feel them being inserted.
Occasionally, you may feel some sensations at the acupuncture point which are normal and thought to be the release/unblocking of the point (de qi) in traditional acupuncture.
Where do the needles go?
The position of the needles will depend on the condition being treated. The needles may be sited near the problem area but are often positioned on acupuncture points along the energy channels (meridians) which have been proven to be effective.
How should I prepare for an acupuncture treatment?
Plan to eat a light meal or snack 1-2 hours before your treatment. We do advise you avoid caffeine and alcohol before and after the treatment, for the treatment to be most beneficial to your body.
If you’re able to wear loose clothing e.g. trousers that roll above the knee, this will allow you to feel most comfortable and will allow easier access to different acupuncture points.
What should I expect on my first visit?
The first session will begin with a consultation to discuss your symptoms, medical history and answer any questions you may have.
A treatment plan will be tailored to the existing complaint and acupuncture points chosen accordingly.
Acupuncture can be performed seated upright or lying down although most people would prefer to lie down for maximum comfort!
How long does the treatment take?
The initial acupuncture session will take longer due to the longer consultation. Please allow an hour for the first session.
Further treatments will take 30-40 mins.
The time the needles are left in position may vary from 20 to 30 minutes.
How many treatments are required?
It is usually advised that you allow 4-6 sessions for treatment to work fully but you are under no obligation to do so. These sessions would ideally be at 1-2 week intervals initially.
Generally, it might take longer to see improvements for chronic conditions, while some conditions may improve more rapidly after 1-2 sessions.
Can you have acupuncture on the NHS?
Some NHS GPs and physiotherapists practice acupuncture. Whether you are offered acupuncture as part of your NHS treatment will depend greatly on your GP practice or MSK service that you are referred to. A course of acupuncture treatments is often offered by NHS pain clinics if you are suffering from a chronic pain condition.
Do I need a referral to receive acupuncture treatment?
You do not need a referral to receive acupuncture. However, it is strongly recommended that you consult your GP about your symptoms to ensure that the diagnosis and treatment of any serious condition is not delayed.
Do you treat children?
We treat children provided that they are old enough to be comfortable receiving acupuncture. Please mention that you are booking for a child when you contact the clinic. A parent or guardian must sign the consent to treat form and be present during the treatment.
Cancellation policy
All cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance, cancellations after this time will be charged 50% of the treatment cost.
Our 24 hour cancellation/change policy exists to protect the income of our practitioners. If you change, cancel or no show for a session you have taken up a spot that can not be booked or used by anybody else. If we are able, we are happy to move an appointment earlier in the day, since that gives us more time to fill the later spot.
We want you to receive your treatment and hate to charge for an unused session. If you are unsure if you will be able to make your appointment it is advisable to cancel it 24 hours in advance and then see if we have a walk in available.
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