FAQ
Q: What is acupuncture?
A: Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine which involves the insertion of very fine needles at key points (known as acupuncture points) into the body. In the UK, acupuncture is a popular and well-established complementary therapy, with approximately three million people undergoing this kind of treatment each year.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Acupuncture is a very safe form of treatment, which has few side effects or complications. However, it is important to make sure that the acupuncturist that you choose is fully qualified, and practises the treatment under safe and hygienic conditions.
Q: What happens when I go for treatment?
A: At your first acupuncture session, your acupuncturist will carry out an assessment of your general health and medical history. They will normally ask about your symptoms, and will also enquire about the type of treatment you have received up until now. They may also ask you questions about your lifestyle, such as your sleeping and eating habits.
After assessing your health and symptoms, your acupuncturist may look at your tongue, as acupuncturists believe that the colour and coating of your tongue can be a good indication of what is happening inside your body. You may also have your pulse measured in both wrists. Your acupuncturist will measure the quality, rhythm, and strength of your pulse.
During an acupuncture session, normally 10-12 acupuncture points are used. The points your acupuncturist uses may differ from session to session, as your treatment progresses.
During an acupuncture session, you will normally be asked to sit, or lie down. You may also be asked to remove some parts of your clothing, so that the acupuncturist can access the relevant acupuncture points on your body.
Once your acupuncturist has identified which points are going to be used, a number of ultra-fine needles are placed into the points. These needles are single-use, pre-sterilised needles, which are disposed of immediately after use.
Q: Is it painful?
A: When the needles are inserted, you may feel a tingling sensation, or a dull ache. You should not experience any significant pain. If you do experience pain, let your acupuncturist know straight away, as they may have to readjust the position, or depth, of the needle.
The needles used for acupuncture are very different to those used in injections, or blood tests. They are much finer and solid (rather than hollow), making them less painful to insert.
Q: How long does an acupuncture session last?
A: Once the needles used in acupuncture are inserted, they will be left in place for between 5-30 minutes, depending on the type of treatment you require. In some cases, acupuncture needles will be inserted and then removed a few seconds later. Most acupuncture sessions last between 20-40 minutes. You will normally require approximately 6-12 sessions of acupuncture in order to feel the full benefits of the treatment.
Q: What is acupuncture used for?
A: Please click here.
