Acupuncture

Available at:

- Brecks Clinic

- Braithwell Clinic

Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine. Fine needles are inserted at certain sites in the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes.

Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles of the body.

This results in the body producing natural substances, such as pain-relieving endorphins. It's likely that these naturally released substances are responsible for the beneficial effects experienced with acupuncture.

A course of acupuncture usually creates longer lasting pain relief than when a single treatment is used.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines for the use of acupuncture. They currently recommend considering acupuncture for:

Chronic tension type headaches
Migraines
Chronic pain

Acupuncture is also widely used for chronic pain resulting from other musculoskeletal conditions.

Acupuncture also helps relieve a wide range of conditions including

Hayfever
Menopause symptoms
Anxiety
IBS
Infertility
Nerve conditions ie bells palsy

Acupuncture Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to restore the flow of energy, known as qi, and promote overall health and well-being.

Q: Is acupuncture safe?

A: When performed by a trained and licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally considered safe. The needles used are sterile and disposable, minimizing the risk of infection. However, it is important to disclose your medical history and any existing conditions to ensure a safe and effective treatment.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

A: Acupuncture is generally a painless procedure. Some people may experience a slight sensation or a mild tingling feeling when the needles are inserted, but it is usually well-tolerated. The needles used are very thin, much thinner than hypodermic needles, making the process more comfortable.

Q: What conditions can acupuncture treat?

A: Acupuncture has been used to address a wide range of health conditions. It is commonly sought for pain management, such as headaches, back pain, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Acupuncture can also be helpful for various other conditions, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, digestive disorders, allergies, and infertility. If you are unsure whether acupuncture may be helpful to you, please do contact us to clarify before booking.

Q: How many acupuncture sessions are needed?

A: The number of acupuncture sessions needed varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the treatment. Some acute conditions may show improvement after just a few sessions, while chronic or more complex conditions may require multiple sessions over a longer period. Your acupuncturist will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. As acupuncture is an accumulative therapy, we recommend a minimum of 4 sessions to judge results from.

Q: How long does an acupuncture session last?

A: An acupuncture session typically lasts between 30 minutes 45 minutes. The initial appointment is usually the slightly longer session as it involves a thorough consultation to understand your health history and concerns. Your acupuncturist will then determine the appropriate treatment plan and proceed with the session.

Q: Are there any side effects of acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is generally safe with minimal side effects. Some people may experience temporary soreness or bruising at the needle insertion site, which typically fades quickly. Occasionally, slight dizziness or fatigue may occur after a session. It is important to inform your acupuncturist if you have any concerns or experience any unusual reactions.

Q: Can acupuncture be used alongside other treatments?

A: Acupuncture can complement conventional medical treatments. It is often used alongside other therapies to enhance their effectiveness or manage side effects. However, it is crucial to inform both your acupuncturist and primary healthcare provider about any ongoing treatments or medications to ensure coordination and avoid any potential interactions.

Q: Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

A: Acupuncture coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and policy. Some insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for acupuncture treatments, particularly for certain conditions. Contact your insurance company to inquire about their coverage for acupuncture or discuss it with your acupuncturist, who may provide assistance in navigating insurance matters.

Fozia is registered with her governing body meaning that most insurers that will cover acupuncture will cover sessions at our clinic; this includes Westfield.

Please note that while acupuncture has been shown to have positive effects on many individuals, individual responses and outcomes may vary. Roughly 80% of people will see some form of results using it, although we do recommend at least 4 sessions to see how you may respond. It is common to feel little to no change after the initial couple of sessions.