Acupuncture is the ancient art of healing developed over thousands of years as part of the traditional medicine of China, Japan and other Eastern countries.

According to traditional Oriental philosophy, physical and mental health is dependant on the movement of the body's natural energy- known as Qi. It is believed that Qi circulates evenly through a number of channels beneath the skin. When the movement of Qi becomes disrupted, illness may occur. This natural movement of Qi may be disrupted by a number of factors, including emotional states (for example, prolonged grief, anger or fear), overwork, poor diet, infections, trauma or hereditary factors.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin at specific points in order to restore the natural movement of Qi to bring the body into a balanced state of being.

Acupuncture is a holistic treatment:
Treatment with acupuncture will address not only the symptoms of a particular illness but also the underlying factors which have may have contributed to the development of the illness. Acupuncture may be considered a holistic form of medicine as it works to improve the overall well-being of the patient, rather than simply focusing on the isolated treatment of specific symptoms. This philosophy is illustrated by an ancient Chinese medical proverb:

"Treat the root as well as the branches"

It is traditionally believed that acupuncture works via affecting the movement of Qi ('Energy') and Xue (Blood) through discrete channels, or meridians.

Several Western theories have been posited as to how acupuncture works. One explanation is that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce certain naturally-occurring chemicals within the body known as endorphins, which inhibit pain and increase feelings of well-being.

The "Gate Theory" posits a second explanation for the analgesic effects of acupuncture, suggesting that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain at various "gates" to these areas. Since a majority of acupuncture points are either located near, or connected to neural structures, this theory suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to "shut the gate" to the sensation of pain.

Scientific research indicates that acupuncture points are located at areas of decreased electrical resistance.

It is not necessary to believe in acupuncture for it to work. Acupuncture can work on animals and on small children - who cannot be instructed to "believe" in acupuncture!

During an acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will ask certain questions about the complaint in order to assess where to place the acupuncture needles.

Needles may be left in place for varying amounts of time, depending on the effect required, from a few minutes to twenty or thirty minutes.

Alongside acupuncture, other techniques derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine may be used. These include massage, cupping (the use of suction cups placed on the skin), moxabustion (the burning of the herb mugwort (artemisia vulgaris) at specific points), and electro-acupunctuure, the stimulation of certain points with a very low electrical current. These techniques are generally used for pain relief.

The initial session may take slightly longer than subsequent sessions. A detailed case history will be taken in order to ascertain the underlying pattern of disharmony.

The pulses on both wrists will be felt in order to assess rhythm, strength and various pulse qualities. The colour and coating of the tongue will also be observed. This information will be used to tailor the treatment specifically to the individual.

Acupuncture needles are very fine and bear little resemblance to needles used for blood tests or injections.

When the needle is inserted, a sensation is elicited which is often described as a tingling sensation, or a dull ache. During treatment patients commonly experience a pleasant feeling of deep relaxation- some even fall asleep!

There are several contraindications for acupuncture. These include:

Yes, acupuncture is a safe treatment. Acupuncture needles are sterile and disposable: each needle is only used once.

All members of the British Acupuncture Council observe a Code of Practice which lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilization for needles and other equipment. These procedures have been approved by the Department of Health and provide protection against the transmission of infectious diseases.

The frequency and number of treatments required will very from patient to patient. Some symptoms may be relieved after a single session, while others may take four to ten treatments.

As a general rule, acute problems usually respond more quickly, while chronic problems of longstanding duration may take longer. While a specific problem is being worked on, you may visit your acupuncturist once or twice a week and gradually reduce the frequency to once or twice a month.

For maintenance of good health, it is traditional in China to have acupuncture at the change of every season (4 times a year).

Acupuncture is a safe treatment for children.

Small children will not be required to sit still for very long as needles are generally left in place for a much shorter time.