What does acupuncture feel like?
The sensations from acupuncture can vary. You may experience a feeling of warmth and heaviness in the local area and a general relaxation and calm through the body or a tingling sensation or moment of very brief discomfort in a local point. The acupuncturist will wish to “attain qi” or bring qi to the needle and local sensation is sought in the initial stage. After the needles are inserted, typically for 30 – 40 minutes, you should have no feeling of discomfort.

Are the needles sterile?
Yes. All needles used by the practitioner are single-use sterile, disposable needles. In addition, the local area is sterilised.

How often do I need to have an acupuncture session?
Treatment frequency varies, as do length and number. In China, patients are often treated every second day but in a Western scenario this is often not feasible. For an acute onset condition two treatments in one week may be recommended but only 1-2 sessions required for full relief. Typically, a patient will visit weekly with most complaints requiring 3 - 8 treatments. Your specific treatment plan will be discussed with you on your first visit.

How long is each acupuncture treatment?
First visits last roughly 1hr with subsequent sessions taking about 45 - 60 mins. A full case history will be taken at the first session which is why it is longer.

How many sessions will I need?
This depends on your complaint. Typically, if you have a recent onset of, for example, elbow or neck pain, you may only require 1 or 2 sessions. If you are seeking treatment for infertility and your period cycle is irregular or there is pronounced PMS, then longer treatment is required to address the underlying imbalance.

What is moxa?
Moxa therapy or moxibustion is the use of the mugwort herb, Artemsia Vulgaris, to treat an acupuncture point. It can either be used indirectly where it is most frequently held, in a long cigar-style stick, over a point and used to warm the skin or it can be placed in small cones directly on the skin. 

Its purpose is to warm acupuncture points and pentrate into the body, stimulating circulation, relieving cold and damp and encouraging smooth flow of qi and blood. Certain conditions, particularly acute and chronic pain and digestive problems can respond extremely well to this treatment. Interestingly, it can also be used to turn breech babies along with appropriate needling.

Why is electro-acupuncture used?
Electro-acupuncture involved stimulating acupuncture points by passing a small electrical current through the needle using an electro-acupuncture device. The sensation achieved is that of a mild, but not uncomfortable tingling. Electro-acupuncture is frequently used in assisting pain relief and promoting circulation and qi flow.

I don’t like needles, are there any alternatives?
Yes. Acupressure uses the same points that are used in acupuncture but without needles. Instead, the points are manipulated using a series of movements including pressing, kneading, stroking and tapping.
Cupping, where a series of glass or bamboo cups are heated and placed on the skin, may also be used to promote qi and blood flow and relieve specific symptoms.

Do I need to inform my doctor about my treatment?
It is a good idea to let your doctor know if you are planning to get acupuncture. S/he may wish to update their records and be aware of any changes in your health. Equally, it is important to advise your acupuncturist of medicine you may be taking because this can affect the selection of points used.
 
Do I need to do anything before an acupuncture treatment?
It is helpful if you wear loose clothing when attending an acupuncture session because the practitioner may need to insert needles around the knee or elbow area. It is also useful to avoid food which stains the tongue temporarily i.e. coffee/tea because your tongue colour and coating will be examined. Allow yourself sufficient time to get to your appointment so you can relax and enjoy it.

How will I feel after an acupuncture session?
Generally, patients feel relaxed and calm after acupuncture, occasionally drowsy. It is advised that you do not partake in vigorous exercise, alcohol or very hot baths after a session.