Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect from my first session?

During the initial consultation a full medical and personal history is taken, this can take part either online or in person and lasts approximately 45 minutes. A follow up treatment should be booked for the week after your consultation, when your personalised treatment plan will be ready.
Questions will include your main complaint, any other issues, sleep, emotions and dietary habits. This is all relevant in order to diagnose you as an individual.
I will feel your pulses and look at your tongue, and if necessary carry out a physical examination, as part of the diagnostic procedure.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Not at all! The needles used for Acupuncture are much smaller than hypodermic needles (used for taking blood or vaccinations). In fact they are around 10 times smaller, which means that most people don't feel them going in.
Once the needle has been inserted, it is then adjusted, the patient will usually feel a tingle or dull sensation when the needle makes contact with the Qi.
The needles are then removed or left in place for 10-30 minutes depending on desired effect. This is usually a very calming and relaxing feeling.

Apart from Acupuncture, what other treatments might I receive?

Chinese Medicine covers a broad spectrum of treatments, including; acupuncture (TCM and Five Element), moxibustion, herbs, cupping, Gua Sha and Tui Na (Chinese massage).
Moxibustion (moxa) is a herb which is burned on or near the skin to warm and nourish.
Cupping involves placing a glass cup on the body, in which a vacuum is created by fire, in order to remove pathogens or move Qi or Blood.
Gua Sha is carried out by lightly 'scraping' a tool over the skin and is used in a similar way to cupping.
Tui Na is a form of massage, originating from China, performed through clothing

Is Acupuncture safe?

According to The British Acupuncture Council "acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments, both conventional and complementary, on offer in the UK".
As a member of the AAC, my treatments are carried out in accordance with their Codes of Safe Practice and Professional Conduct.
The treatment room and equipment conform to AAC standards and have been approved by the local authority environmental health department.
I use pre-sterilised single use needles.
My degree level training included western anatomy, physiology and pathology.
I hold an up to date certificate in emergency first aid and have full liability insurance.

How many treatments will I need?

Each patient is different and will respond to treatment on an individual basis.
Acute conditions, those which come on suddenly, can often gain relief quite quickly, whereas chronic, long term conditions will require more treatment.
It is normal to begin with weekly treatments, as acupuncture has a cumulative effect. I continually monitor progress and discuss treatment expectation and outcomes with my patients.
Having one treatment and saying it didn't work is like going to the gym for the first time and not coming out with a six pack!

How does Facial Enhancement Acupuncture work?

Seen as an alternative to BOTOX, cosmetic or facial enhancement acupuncture is becoming very popular, especially with celebrities, as a more holistic treatment to combat the signs of ageing.
Many ultra fine needles are placed into lines on the face, lifting and tightening facial muscles and causing micro trauma, promoting the body to self heal and iron out the wrinkles.
Needles are also placed in acupuncture points in other areas of the body, to ensure the treatment is tailored to the individual so an all round benefit is achieved.
An initial course of treatment is recommended, followed by top ups every few months.

Do you have any special offers or discounts available?

My prices are very competitive compared to other local practitioners.
I offer a 5% discount off follow up treatment for Blue Light Card holders.
I offer a bulk discount for a course of Facial Acupuncture when paid for in advance.
See my Prices tab for current charges.

FAQ: FAQ