Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”). This practice is believed to help with a variety of health issues by restoring harmony within the body. Acupuncture is commonly used to treat pain, stress, and various chronic conditions. The underlying theory is based on the idea that energy flows through pathways called meridians, and that stimulating these points can improve health by addressing imbalances or blockages in this flow. Acupuncture is widely practiced and researched, and it has been integrated into some aspects of Western medicine for pain management and other therapeutic purposes.

Acupuncture can help numerous ways, including:

• Pain Relief: Acupuncture is often used to alleviate chronic pain, including back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, knee pain, and migraines.
• Stress Reduction: By promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones, acupuncture can help manage stress and anxiety.
• Improving Sleep: Acupuncture can aid in treating insomnia and improving the quality of sleep.
• Digestive Health: It can help with digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and nausea, including chemotherapy-induced nausea.
• Boosting Immunity: Acupuncture can enhance the immune system and improve the body’s ability to fight off illnesses.
• Hormonal Balance: It may assist in regulating hormones, which can be beneficial for conditions like menstrual cycle issues, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause symptoms.
• Enhancing Mental Health: Acupuncture can support mental health treatment by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Improving Circulation: By promoting better blood flow, acupuncture can aid in the healing process and overall vitality.
• Allergy Relief: Acupuncture can improve Hay fever symptoms. It can help reduce the severity and frequency of allergic reactions.
• Chronic Conditions: Acupuncture may provide relief from symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Fertility issues: Acupuncture is used to help and support anybody going though infertility and fertility treatments to improve the chances of a successful outcome.

During your first consultation, the acupuncturist will discuss your medical history with you, as well as general health, lifestyle and any previous injuries or operations. This case history is very important for her to make a detailed diagnosis of your condition. Before treating you, she will explain her findings thoroughly and advise you how long it might take to get a satisfactory result.

Who has acupuncture?

Many people come to acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or to relieve specific pains like osteoarthritis of the knee. Some use acupuncture because they feel generally unwell but have no obvious diagnosis. Others choose acupuncture simply to enhance their feeling of wellbeing. Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages including babies and children. It can be used effectively alongside conventional medicine.

What can it do for me?

Some people turn to acupuncture for help with a specific symptom or condition. Others choose to have treatment to help maintain good health, as a preventive measure, or simply to improve their general sense of wellbeing. Because traditional acupuncture aims to treat the whole person rather than specific symptoms in isolation, it can be effective for a range of conditions.