Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture and what conditions can it treat?

Perhaps you have heard about acupuncture but aren't sure whether it would be the right sort of treatment for your problem or condition.

Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. According to Oriental philosophy our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy known as "Qi" (pronounced Chee). Qi moves around our bodies in meridians. When we think of these meridians as similar to streams and rivers we can understand how, in just the same way, they can become blocked or silted up. By inserting very fine needles into specific points in the channels an acupuncturist can help the Qi to flow effectively, thereby stimulating the body's own healing response.

Acupuncture can treat a wide range of physical and emotional problems; the focus being on improving overall well being as well as the treatment of specific symptoms. This means that treatment with acupuncture can often succeed where conventional treatments can offer no relief.

Prospective patients often ask whether they need to "believe" in acupuncture for it to work. The answer is a definite NO -acupuncture works regardless!

Here's an idea of some of the conditions that acupuncture can help:

• Acute and chronic pain
• Arthritis and rheumatism
• Facial paralysis
• Headache and migraine
• Asthma and allergies
• Skin conditions
• Emotional states such as stress, anger, anxiety, grief, shyness and depression
• ME and post-viral fatigue
• Urinary and bowel disorders
• Recovery from surgery
• Heart and circulation problems
• Sciatica
• Back pain
• Digestive disorders
• Fertility and pregnancy
• Menstrual problems
• Menopause

There are many other conditions of course. I am always happy to discuss a particular problem without any obligation.

What does it feel like?

When most people think of needles they think about those used for injections and blood tests. Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to these. They are much finer (one of my patients famously remarked that they were more like bristles than needles!)

Most patients describe a dull, slightly aching sensation when the needle is inserted. It's not unpleasant -and is a sign that the needle is doing its stuff!

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. I use only sterile, disposable needles. As a member of the British Acupuncture Council I have to keep to very stringent standards of hygiene and safety, which have been approved by the Department of Health. My patients are eligible to donate blood through the National Blood Service.

I place great emphasis on the importance of recognising when it is safe to treat and when patients should be referred to their GP.

How quickly would I notice an improvement?

Every individual is unique, and so is everyone's response to treatment.

Sometimes the effects of treatment are dramatic and only 1 or 2 treatments are required. For others the initial improvements are in overall health/well-being and then improvement in the main problem follows.

Most people feel revitalised mentally or physically fairly early in treatment. The length of time you have had your condition or problem is always important in assessing how quickly improvement can be expected. This is something we would talk about at your first consultation.

How many treatments would I need?

This is a really difficult question to answer, as every person is different.

Most patients attend weekly for the first few weeks. After between 4 to 6 treatments you can expect your visits to be become more spaced out (say fortnightly or three-weekly), or for the treatment to be complete.

In reality, most patients feel so much better with acupuncture that they come back every few months or so for maintenance.

Should I tell my doctor that I am having acupuncture?

If you are already receiving treatment through your doctor then it makes sense to tell her or him that you are having acupuncture.

Acupuncture works very effectively alongside conventional medicine. Many patients, particularly those with chronic, long-term conditions, find that acupuncture treatment enables them to reduce dependence on medication. But, of course, this should only ever be done in consultation with your doctor.

How much does it cost?

The first session (consultation, diagnosis & treatment) lasts one and a half hours and costs £45. Subsequent treatments (45 mins-l hour) cost £35.

I operate a small percentage of my practice on a reduced-fee basis to help individuals on low income. Please phone me if you would like to discuss this.

Can I claim on my health insurance?

Many insurance companies offer a sum of money for therapies that are proven to be effective (such as osteopathy and acupuncture) and provided the practitioner is registered with their professional body. You should ask your insurance company for details.

What if I'm still not sure?

If you are unsure and would like to have a chat before committing to treatment you are welcome to ring – 01242 604694.

Alternatively I offer a free 15-minute appointment where you can ask me questions and we can talk about what you are seeking from treatment.

About Sue

Sue gained a First Class Honours Degree in Traditional Acupuncture from the Oxford Brookes University and a Licentiate in Acupuncture from the College of Traditional Acupuncture in Leamington Spa. The Leamington college is one of the most widely respected acupuncture colleges in the UK and has been established for nearly 30 years.

Sue is a full member of the British Acupuncture Council and is bound by their Codes of Ethics, Conduct and Safe Practice. You can find information on these at www.acupuncture.org.uk.

Sue lives in Winchcombe with her Husband Roger (Paine) and her dog Gypsy!