What Can I Expect at an Acupuncture Treatment?
The following is some acupuncture information on what to expect when you first come for a session. When you first come for treatment I will carry out an in-depth interview with you. This will cover your medical history, lifestyle, personal and family history. I will also take your pulse and look at your tongue. This enables me to build up a clear picture in order to tailor treatment accordingly. I will then treat you at this first session.
How many Acupuncture Sessions will I need?
The number of treatments required and frequency will vary from person to person. Some people will feel considerably better after 3 to 4 treatments, for others it will take longer. Usually treatments are likely to be on a weekly basis depending upon your condition. As this improves treatments may become less frequent. So you may reach the stage where you come less regularly but use acupuncture as a preventative treatment. This will help to maintain your body’s natural balance.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine. They are nothing like dressmaking needles or those used in syringes. Many people barely notice the needles whilst others are more sensitive. Also people may find different points are more sensitive than others. However the majority of people who try acupuncture find it a relaxing experience.
Common complaints which can be helped with acupuncture are:
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a review about controlled clinical trials on acupuncture. The review included a list of conditions that can be treated with acupuncture, including:
Adverse reactions to radiotherapy or chemotherapy
Depression
Period Pains
Headaches
High Blood Pressure
Musculoskeletal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Sciatica
Stroke
Other conditions for which evidence exists but further proof is needed include:
Asthma
Bells palsy
Cancer pain
Diabetes
Earache
Female infertility
Fibromyalgia
Gout
Insomnia
Obesity
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Osteoarthritis
Raynauds Syndrome
Sore throat
For more acupuncture information and a comprehensive list of the conditions that Acupuncture can treat please follow this link to the British Acupuncture Council’s website