What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), employs fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to elicit biochemical, physiological, and anatomical responses, promoting self-regulation and overall health. Its history spans over 2000 years, with proven efficacy in treating a wide array of conditions including migraines, back pain, hormonal imbalances, and infertility.
I as a member of the BAcC (British Acupuncture Council) and as part of the reputable team at the Zita West clinic have undergo extensive training in both traditional acupuncture and western biomedical sciences, ensuring a high standard of care and treatment efficacy.
What can I expect at my first acupuncture consultation?
During the initial visit, a thorough consultation is conducted, encompassing medical history, lifestyle factors, and physical examination to tailor treatment to individual needs. Acupuncture points are selected based on this assessment, with sessions lasting 45 minutes to 60 minutes on average.
Acupuncture points are located in all areas of the body. Typically an acupuncture treatment will involve selecting points from below the elbows and knees, around the abdomen, on the back and around head, ears and face, depending on the treatment strategy. No two treatments of acupuncture are the same and the location and number of points needled vary in between sessions but generally around 10-12 needles are used each time.Your acupuncturist may choose, if appropriate, to use one of the following adjunctive treatments to the acupuncture: electroacupuncture (the use of a TENS machine to stimulate acupoints); the herb artemisia vulgaris or moxibustion (to warm up some areas); massage techniques (tuina or shiatsu) to assist blood flow. Lifestyle and related self-care advice is an integral component of acupuncture treatment and your practitioner will make some suggestions based on your acupuncture-related diagnosis.
How will acupuncture help me?
Treatment frequency varies but typically involves 6 to 10 sessions, depending on the condition being treated. Research suggests acupuncture can positively impact your health:
by improving blood flow, hormone regulation, emotional well-being.
It is often integrated into fertility treatments like IVF, with acupuncture sessions beginning 3 to 6 months prior to the procedure to optimize outcomes.
Safe for use during pregnancy, labor, and the postnatal period,
Acupuncture offers relief for various pregnancy-related discomforts and aids in labor preparation and recovery.
What does acupuncture feel like?
The procedure involves the use of disposable, hair-thin needles that typically induce sensations like mild ache, warmth, or tingling, leading to relaxation. While side effects are rare, precautions such as eating lightly before treatment and avoiding strenuous activity afterward are recommended.
How often should I have acupuncture?
During the first consultation I will discuss a treatment plan based on your presentation and current circumstances. Acupuncture is considered to be dose dependent and the effects accumulating after a number of treatments: different doses may be required for different conditions. In general a course of acupuncture consists between 6 to 10 treatments and a review of progress should be expected after this period.
