Evidence of acupuncture's effectiveness is growing as researchers evaluate the best ways to measure how the body responds to it. To date most of this has been on pain management, but clinical studies are being conducted to understand how acupuncture can be beneficial for may conditions and there are scholarly articles to be found online.
Many people have acupuncture to relieve specific aches and pains. Others choose acupuncture when their bodily functions are out of balance but they have no obvious diagnosis. Some have regular treatments because they find it so relaxing and beneficial to their wellbeing.
There are many diagnostic methods used to put together an individual treatment plan based on your state of health. A complete medical history is also taken. Acupuncture needles are inserted at points selected to treat the whole body as well as your symptoms, and you will be left to rest for a while before they are removed. Needles are single-use sterile and come in sealed packs.
Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people don't feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache around the needle. Responses to treatment can sometimes include tiredness or mild dizziness and occasionally mild bruising can occur. All such reactions are short-lived, and in most cases you will feel calm and relaxed!
The risk of adverse events from acupuncture is extremely low and a rare occurrence. If you have any concerns at all, please do let me know and we can discuss your treatment in more detail.
If you are taking prescribed medication it is recommended that you tell your doctor that you plan to have acupuncture. Do not stop taking your medication.
Weekly treatments are normal to begin with, reducing in frequency as your body responds. The effect is usually felt within five or six treatments.
This will vary depending on your treatment plan and will be discussed at the time of enquiry or booking.
Increasingly private health insurance schemes are happy to cover the costs of treatments. You should, however, check with them directly for exact coverage and conditions.