Are there any side effects?
There are few, if any, side effects of acupuncture treatment. Some patients feel tired after treatment, but some feel energised. Sometimes patients may feel a slight aggravation of symptoms if the treatment has been a strong one, as the energies clear, but this is followed usually by significant improvement. The reaction varies between individuals. Many people feel a general improvement in their sense of well-being and increased energy levels, as well as relief from their symptoms.

Is it safe?
Acupuncture is a safe treatment. Membership of the British Acupuncture Council requires strict adherence to high standards of hygiene. The needles used in this practice are high quality and disposable. They are used once only and then incinerated.

Does it hurt?
Many people are put-off coming for acupuncture treatment because of the needles because most people expect the needles to be like those used in injections and blood tests. This is a long way from the truth. In practice the needles are very fine, like a hair, and are solid not hollow. The most common experience of the needles is a sensation like a tingling or a dull ache. The whole experience promotes a sense of relaxation. Those people who do overcome their apprehension about needles and come for treatment are usually reassured after the first session. For the few people who do find the needles painful extra fine needles or massage can be used.

Where in the body do the needles go?
There are over 500 acupuncture points located all over the body, but in practice 100-200 are commonly used, The area of the body to be needled depends upon the diagnosis but many commonly used points are in the arms and legs. The location of the symptoms does not necessarily determine where the needles will go, e.g. a headache may be treated by inserting needles in the foot. Smoking and other addictions are usually treated by small needles in the ears.

What happens at the first visit?
The first consultation usually lasts 1-1½ hours, during which time the patient will be asked detailed questions about their current complaint, their general health, their medical history and any medication they are on. Questions will also be asked about their diet eating and sleeping patterns, and other lifestyle issues that are relevant. Once enough information has been obtained the practitioner will usually take the pulse in both wrists and examine the tongue to give more insight into the general energetic state and energy flow in the body. The practitioner will now be in a position to assess which channels need to be rebalanced and needles will be inserted in appropriate points and left in place for about 20 minutes. Massage is often used for many complaints prior to insertion of needles and also moxibustion, which involves the burning of a herb, and which is commonly used to warm and promote the smooth flow of energy.