Does acupuncture really work?

Acupuncture has been tried and tested over many thousands of years and is very effective in the majority of people. As with any treatment, people respond differently, and some may experience a better result, more quickly than others. However, most people will benefit from having acupuncture, and current research, especially into topics such as pain and fertility is extremely positive.

Modern science demonstrates:
● Acupuncture alters body chemicals, including stimulation of endorphins.
● Acupuncture sensation effect nerves and cause beneficial reflex response.
● Acupuncture affects the bodies natural electro-magnetic fields.
● Acupuncture harmonizes the balance of whole body, Yin/Yang; Qi/Blood; Zang/Fu

The 1997 National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture stated:
"The data in support of acupuncture are as strong as those for many accepted Western medical therapies.“

"One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions."

How long does a treatment take?

Allow over an hour for your first treatment, as your acupuncturist will need to take a full medical history and ask you a number of other questions. This is also an opportunity for you to explain exactly what you hope to gain from your acupuncture treatment. After this initial consultation, treatments normally last around 45 minutes.

What does it feel like?

People often describe a pleasant tingling sensation or a dull ache. The needles used in acupuncture are many times finer than an injection needle, so any discomfort is minimal.

Is it safe? Are there any side-effects?

Acupuncture has a very good safety record. It is suitable for all ages, and safe to use during pregnancy. As it works gently with the body’s natural systems, side effects are rarely experienced. Some people may feel tired after a treatment, other possible side effects are temporary light-headedness, or dizziness, feeling emotional or minor bruising. Any side effects should be reported to your acupuncturist.

Does acupuncture hurt?
A: Not usually. A dull ache often develops at the point (considered to be a good therapeutic sign) but the needles are so fine that people having treatment for the first time are pleasantly surprised, finding the treatment to be very relaxing and therapeutic.

How will I feel after acupuncture?
A: Usually relaxed and calm. Occasionally you may feel tired or drowsy for a few hours if the treatment has been particularly strong or there may be a short term flaring up of your symptoms as your Qi clears and resettles itself.

Can I get better straight away if I have a session of acupuncture for my lower back pain/frozen shoulder/headache/sciatica?
A: Yes, in most cases, you can feel the difference straight away after one session of treatment.