About Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient system of medicine dating back around 2000 years. It views ill health, whether it be physical, emotional or mental as a sign that the body is out of balance.

It uses fine needles to penetrate the body at particular points to affect the body’s energy and return it to a state of equilibrium. For good health, it is essential that our energy, known as Qi, flows freely around our bodies. Qi can become weak or blocked due to a range of factors such as diet, long working hours, emotional issues and physical trauma which results in pain and ill health. Stimulating these points unblocks and strengthens our Qi which nourishes and restores our bodies.

A key feature of traditional acupuncture is that it looks at the signs and symptoms of ill health in relation to each other, treating the whole person not just the illness. This holistic approach can bring about additional positive changes such as better sleep and appetite, increased energy and a feeling of wellbeing.

Other techniques

As well as using fine needles, other techniques may be used as part of treatment. See below for further information.

Can it help me?

Acupuncture therapy is as individual as you are. Acupuncture points and techniques are carefully chosen to specifically address your own unique set of circumstances and complaints. Typically patients seek help with:

  • Musculoskeletal conditions

  • Headaches

  • Respiratory conditions

  • Digestive issues

  • Fatigue

  • Insomnia

  • Gynaecological and menopausal issues

  • Infertility

  • Pregnancy related conditions

  • Stress and anxiety

For information on acupuncture and particular health conditions click here to access factsheets produced by The British Acupuncture Council.

 

Other techniques

  • Moxibustion

    Moxibustion involves burning a herb called moxa. It is used to warm certain points and areas of the body

  • Cupping

    Suction cups are used to lift the tissues to encourage the movement of blood and fluids. This treatment if often used when there are symptoms of stiffness, pain or viral infection

  • Gua Sha

    Gua sha is a scraping therapy. It involves applying oil to the skin before scraping the skin with a blunt instrument. The aim of the therapy is to improve the micro circulation of the area. It is often used where there is pain, stiffness and symptoms of cold and flu

  • Electroacupuncture

    This therapy uses electricity to stimulate acupuncture points. The needles are inserted and connected to an electroacupuncture machine which sends a small current along the needle causing it to gently vibrate . This type of therapy is used when there is pain and in the induction of labour