Treatment is holistic, and takes into account the lifestyle and medical history of each individual patient - dietary and lifestyle advice is often central to the healing process, although we promise to keep it practical!
Treatments last one hour, although the initial consultation is longer as we need to get a full case history and ask lots of questions, take your pulse and look at your tongue. Some of this may seem irrelevant to the problem you'd like treated, but trust us, it's not irrelevant to us, and we will of course focus your treatment as you wish.
The number of treatments you need will depend on your condition, your general health, and how long you have been suffering - and may involve making lifestyle and dietary changes. Acute problems may only need a couple of treatments, whereas longer-standing issues may need at least 10 weekly sessions. Your practitioner will be able to give you a better idea. Most people would usually see some improvement in 4-6 sessions.
'Side effects' of treatments usually include enhanced general well-being, along with improved sleep, energy levels, digestion and mood in addition to the beneficial effects on the presenting condition.
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture doesn't have to be a daunting experience. We do our best to make your experience a tranquil and pleasurable one. Most people find treatments are extremely calming (some even fall asleep on the treatment table!), and leave the room either deeply relaxed or with renewed energy.
The acupuncture needles used are sterile and used only once. Most are about as fine as a horse hair (nothing like an injection needle!) and are generally painless. Many do not feel them at all. There often follows a sensation known as "De Qi" which is typically described as a dull ache, a sensation of pressure or warmth, or a radiating or tingling sensation - this should not feel unpleasant, and needles can be adjusted or removed at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
MOXIBUSTION
Part of your treatment may include burning a warming herb called "moxa" over the skin and the channels. Again, this should be a comfortable and enjoyable sensation, and is especially useful in cold, stiff or painful conditions.
TUI NA MASSAGE
"TuiNa" or Chinese massage may be used as part of your treatment, which is related to acupressure and shiatsu, but uses more Traditional Chinese Medicine ideas of moving or supporting the "Qi", or energy, of the body.
CUPPING
We may also use "Cupping" which involves applying a suction cup to the skin (under vacuum) over acupuncture points and meridians, usually on the back, neck and shoulders. Oil may be applied to the skin and the cups can be slid along the meridians and muscles relieving tension and pain.