Acupuncture

Rooted in ancient Chinese and East Asian traditions, acupuncture has been a cornerstone of healthcare for centuries. Today, it continues to be a vital part of both mainstream and complementary therapies across the globe, seamlessly integrating with conventional Western medicine. As its popularity soars, acupuncture is becoming a trusted choice within the UK and Europe, embraced by both public and private healthcare providers. Backed by extensive research, acupuncture is an evidence-based therapy, with numerous studies confirming its effectiveness

Discover the benefits of acupuncture and how it can enhance your well-being.

Table of Content

2. Your First Acupuncture Session: What to Expect

3. Additional Manual Therapies Used Alongside Acupuncture

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

5. My Unique Approach: Integrating TCM & Five-Element Acupuncture

6. Acupuncture as Evidence-Based & Integrative Medicine

7. Acupuncture Research & Information

8. The History of Acupuncture

1. What Acupuncture Is & How It Can Benefit You

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient practice designed to maintain your body’s equilibrium by regulating your body’s vital energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"). Using ultra-fine needles—thinner than a strand of hair—acupuncture needles are gently inserted at specific points on your body to balance the flow of Qi. Various lifestyle and environmental factors can disrupt, deplete, or block your Qi, leading to pain, discomfort, or illness. Acupuncture is a powerful therapy that helps restore this balance, promoting both physical and emotional harmony and healing.

What Can Acupuncture Do for You?

Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that addresses the entire person rather than just isolated symptoms. For example, you might seek acupuncture for back pain, only to find that other issues, like stress or sleep disturbances, also improve as your treatments progress.

Acupuncture also serves as an effective preventative medicine. It can address conditions where conventional medicine has limitations, making it a perfect complement to Western medical treatments. When performed by a highly qualified practitioner, acupuncture is a safe treatment with minimal, if any, side effects.

The doctor of traditional Chinese medicine pulse.jpg

acupuncture therapy on auricle, horizontal very close up photo.jpg

Who Benefits from Acupuncture?

People choose acupuncture for a variety of reasons:

1. To alleviate specific symptoms or relieve pain, such as knee osteoarthritis.

2. To maintain good health, take preventative measures, or enhance overall well-being.

3. To address general feelings of unwellness when a clear diagnosis is not available.

4. To support conventional medical treatments, such as IVF or cancer care, by strengthening the body and easing discomfort associated with these treatments.

5. Acupuncture is suitable for all ages, including babies and children.

2. Your First Acupuncture Session: What to Expect

Your First Acupuncture Session:
What to Expect

Parkinson and alzheimer female senior elderly patient with professional doctor consult in

1.
Consultation

If it is your first acupuncture appointment, I will begin by asking about your main complaint, general health, detailed medical history, and current medications to complete a comprehensive Chinese Medicine diagnosis.

2.
Examination

I will also check your pulse and tongue, carry out physical examinations such as palpating specific muscles, joints, and channels, and observe your movement if necessary.

3.
Treatment

Based on the diagnosis, I will develop a treatment plan and proceed with treatments that may include needling and, if appropriate, moxibustion, cupping, or Gua Sha.

3. Additional Manual Therapies Used Alongside Acupuncture

Additional Manual Therapies Used
Alongside Acupuncture

Women who are prescribed the moxibustion on the back in the salon.jpg

Moxibustion (Moxa)

Moxa is a therapy that involves the application of heat using a medicinal herb called mugwort. I often use it to treat cold and deficient symptoms, warming and strengthening the affected area by burning moxa directly on your skin, where specific meridians or acupuncture points are located. Additionally, I use a moxa stick or box to warm larger areas of the body, such as the back and abdomen.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a scraping therapy that alleviates stasis and pain while strengthening the area by scraping the skin surface with the edge of a Gua Sha tool (such as a metal lid) until light bruising or petechiae appear. This therapy promotes healthy circulation of Qi and encourages blood flow, benefiting areas affected by muscle tension, knots, and pain due to stagnation and deficiency. Commonly treated areas include the shoulders, neck, and back.

Cupping

Cupping is an effective remedy used to eliminate toxins, stagnation, and pathogens through the skin by applying local suction with heated or vacuum cups. This technique treats various ailments, including muscle pain, knots, and fever. Bruising and skin discolouration may occur as a result of this treatment but should clear within a few days.

4. Frequently Asked Queastions (FAQs)

Silver needles for traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture. Close-up. Isolated white back

Frequently
Asked
Questions
(FAQs)

Q1. Does acupuncture hurt? A: Most people experience minimal to no pain during acupuncture. The needles are much thinner than those used for injections, so the sensation is typically a mild tingling or slight discomfort at the insertion point, followed by a feeling of relaxation or heaviness.

Q2. Is acupuncture safe? A: Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. The needles are sterile, single-use, and disposed of after each session. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or those taking blood thinners, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider beforehand.

Q3. How many acupuncture sessions will I need? A: The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated, its severity, and the individual's response to treatment. Some people feel relief after just one session, while others may need multiple sessions over weeks or months.

Q4. What are the side effects of acupuncture? A: Side effects are rare but can include minor bruising, slight bleeding, or soreness at the needle insertion sites. Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially after their first treatment. Serious side effects are very uncommon when acupuncture is performed by a trained professional.

Q5. Can acupuncture be used alongside other treatments? A: Yes, acupuncture is often used in conjunction with other treatments, including conventional medicine, physical therapy, and other forms of alternative medicine. It’s important to inform all your healthcare providers about any treatments you are receiving to ensure coordinated care.

Q6. How is the hygiene maintained with acupuncture needles? A: I use only high-quality disposable needles that are designed for one-time use only. After a needle is inserted and removed, it is immediately discarded and never reused, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Q7. How do I choose an acupuncture practitioner? A: Choose a licensed and certified acupuncture practitioner who has proper training and experience. In many countries, acupuncturists are required to be licensed by a regulatory board. It’s also helpful to ask for recommendations, check reviews, and ensure the practitioner adheres to proper hygiene and safety standards.

Q8. Is acupuncture covered by insurance? A: Coverage for acupuncture varies depending on your health insurance plan and location. Some insurance plans cover acupuncture for certain conditions, while others may not. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for specific details.

Q9. Can acupuncture help with mental health issues? A: Acupuncture is sometimes used to help with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. It is believed to promote relaxation and balance the body’s energy, which can have a positive effect on mental health. However, it should not replace standard treatments like therapy or medication.

Q10. How long do the effects of acupuncture last? A: The effects of acupuncture can vary from person to person. Some may experience immediate relief, while others may notice gradual improvements over time. The duration of relief can also vary, with some people experiencing lasting benefits and others needing regular sessions to maintain results.

Q11. Is acupuncture suitable for everyone? A: While acupuncture is generally safe for most people, it may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions, such as bleeding disorders or infections. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before starting acupuncture, as some points are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Q12. What should I do after an acupuncture session? A: After an acupuncture session, it’s recommended to rest and stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, and caffeine immediately after treatment. Pay attention to how your body feels, and inform your practitioner of any unusual symptoms in follow-up sessions.

acupuncture needles and ancient medicine illustration showing acupuncture points on human

My Unique Approach: Integrating
TCM & Five-Element Acupuncture

I offer a unique treatment approach that integrates Five-Element (FE) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture. This holistic system enables me to address the root causes of your ailments, support you through life’s challenges, and promote emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

So, what exactly are Five-Element (FE) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture?

Learn more

07. Evidence-Based & Integrative Medicine

Acupuncture as Evidence-Based & Integrative Medicine

Numerous clinical studies were conducted to assess its efficacy and understand acupuncture’s mechanisms. Although acupuncture is rooted in traditional concepts of energy and meridians, modern research has proposed that the technique may work by stimulating the nervous system, enhancing the body’s natural painkillers (endorphins), and promoting blood circulation and immune function. As a result, acupuncture has been increasingly integrated into Western medical practice, particularly as a complementary therapy. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends acupuncture for conditions such as chronic pain and migraines, recognising its potential to provide relief when conventional treatments may be insufficient. A substantial body of research demonstrates that acupuncture is effective in treating a wide range of conditions. The highly esteemed British Medical Journal recently published a positive report on acupuncture, and even Harvard Medical School advocates for this system of medicine. Evidence supports the use of acupuncture for: - Cancer related pain and the side effects of conventional cancer treatment - Musculoskeletal pain and migraine - Depression and other mental health disorders - Fertility related issues and menopausal symptoms - Childhood ailments and developmental issues

female acupuncture model with needles in the shoulder.jpg

Acupuncture Research & Information

The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) has produced updated research information in their Evidence-Based A-Z factsheets , highlighting the effectiveness of acupuncture. Their research covers a range of conditions, including anxiety, back pain, chronic fatigue, and infertility (IVF).

For more detailed information and research on the efficacy of acupuncture, you can visit the following websites:
- British Acupuncture Council (BAcC)
- Evidence-Based Acupuncture

- Association of Acupuncture Clinicians (AAC)
- NHS

8. Research & Information

6. The History of Acupuncture

The History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient therapeutic practice that has its origins in China over 2,500 years ago.

Origins and Early Development

The earliest records of acupuncture date back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), where texts such as the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) laid the foundation for Chinese medicine. This ancient text outlines the principles of acupuncture and other traditional practices, including herbal medicine and moxibustion, a technique that involves burning herbs near the skin to stimulate acupuncture points. Acupuncture developed further over the following centuries, with Chinese physicians refining techniques and expanding the theoretical framework of Chinese Medicine. By the time of the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE), acupuncture was widely practiced in China and had spread to neighbouring countries, influencing the development of similar practices in Japan (where it evolved into Shiatsu), Korea, and Vietnam.

Introduction to the West

Acupuncture remained largely unknown in the West until the 17th century, when European missionaries and travellers began to document their encounters with the practice in China. Despite this early exposure, acupuncture did not gain significant recognition in the West until the 20th century. In the 1970s, acupuncture gained international attention when a journalist accompanying U.S. President Richard Nixon on a visit to China underwent an emergency appendectomy in Beijing. He reported that Chinese doctors used acupuncture to manage his postoperative pain, sparking widespread interest in the technique in the United States and Europe.

Acupuncture in Modern Western Medicine

Since then, acupuncture has become increasingly popular in Western countries and it is now offered in a variety of healthcare settings, from private clinics to hospitals and even within the NHS. It is used to address a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress and anxiety, digestive disorders, infertility, and side effects of chemotherapy, among others. Scientific research has begun to explore the mechanisms behind acupuncture, with some studies suggesting that it may stimulate the nervous system, release endorphins, and influence the body’s immune and hormonal functions. While its exact mechanisms are still a subject of research, acupuncture continues to be valued for its holistic approach to health, offering a natural and time-honoured method of healing that complements modern medical practices.

Global Recognition and Practice

Acupuncture has also become widely recognised and respected across the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) endorses acupuncture for treating over 100 different conditions, reflecting its broad applicability and effectiveness. Moreover, acupuncture has evolved in the West to include various styles and approaches, such as Five-Element Acupuncture, which focuses on treating the root cause of illness by balancing the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) within the body, and Medical Acupuncture, which adapts traditional techniques to align with modern biomedical understanding.