About Acupuncture - Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of symptoms of a wide range of medical conditions. It can be effective on its own or as a support and to strengthen the efficacy of conventional medical treatments.
​
Acupuncture treatments can correct imbalances of the internal organs promoting functions such as digestion, absorption and energy production activities, and facilitating the circulation of the organs energy through the meridians.
Acupuncture - a time-honoured medicine
The origins of acupuncture in China can be traced back at least 2000 years, making it one of the oldest and most long-standing health care systems in the world. Today, acupuncture is an effective, natural and increasingly popular form of health care that is being used by people from a wide range of cultural and social backgrounds.
Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as on the treatment.
​
What is qi & how does it affect the body?
When healthy, an abundant supply of qi (pronounced chee) or "life energy" flows through the body's meridians (a network of invisible channels through the body). If the flow of qi in the meridians becomes blocked or there is an inadequate supply of qi, then the body fails to maintain harmony, balance and order, and disease or illness follows. This can result from stress, overwork, poor diet, disease pathogens, weather and environmental conditions, and other lifestyle factors and becomes evident to TCM practitioners through observable signs of bodily dysfunction. TCM practitioners look carefully for these signs of health and dysfunction, paying particular attention not only to the presenting signs and symptoms, but also to the medical history, general constitution, and the pulse and tongue.
​
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body's meridians to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of qi through the individual. The practitioner may also stimulate the acupuncture points using other methods, including moxibustion, cupping, laser therapy, electro-stimulation and massage, in order to re-establish the flow of qi.
How do treatments go?
​
The first session
In the first acupuncture session, which will last for between 1½ and 2 hours, you will be asked for some details of your life, including your medical history, energy level and lifestyle, to give some idea of the quality of your health.
Other factors considered in the diagnosis include the nature of your symptoms and how they manifest, the appearance of your skin and tongue and the feel of your six pulses on each wrist. Sometimes a physical examination will be included as part of the diagnosis process, which could involve, inspection, checking the movement range and/or palpation of the affected area and/or the channels. Subsequently several points are chosen for the treatment.
The treatment itself
The treatment itself Treatment will generally include gentle insertion of needles to stimulate Qi, and they may be removed immediately or left in place for between 15–20 minutes. Other techniques, including cupping, moxibustion, guasha and tui na, can be used alongside the insertion of needles.
Further sessions
Follow-on treatments will last up to an hour and will aim to improve the original main complaint but also focus on any conditions present on the day. Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment are not static, evolving from treatment to treatment.
Frequently asked question about Acupuncture
​
Does Acupuncture hurt?
The insertion of the needle is painless but you can sometimes experience a slight sensation and a different sensation when it reaches the acupuncture point. It is described in various ways such as slight pulling, twirling, distending, or the needle being grabbed. As the acupuncture needles are very fine, specially made to go through the skin as smoothly as possible as they don’t ‘have a hollow with an oblique end which cuts through the skin like the medical needle, it doesn’t feel anything like an injection. Sometimes heat is applied directly to the point or to the ends of needles and gives a pleasant sensation of warmth on the skin/ around the needle.
Is Acupuncture safe?
There is no risk of infection from the treatments as the needles are sterile, single-use and made of high quality stainless steel. The treatment is carried out following clear standards relating to hygiene and safety which have been approved by the Department of Health. Cristina is a member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) Medical Acupuncture Society and adheres to their strict codes of Safe Practice and Professional Conduct.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed varies from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions more treatments are recommended which will be usually weekly for the first 4–6 weeks, with the time between treatments extending as the symptoms reduce. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required.
Are there any side effects?
Acupuncture does not have side effects like drugs. Occasionally there can be a reaction and in the short term (hours, days) the symptoms may get worse as the treatment gradually rebalances the system. General changes in energy level, appetite, sleep, digestion and emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. Immediately after the first one or two treatments they may be a feeling of deep relaxation or mild disorientation. If experienced, this passes quickly, aided by a little rest.
How should I prepare for the treatment?
Dress comfortably, wearing something that offers easy access to the lower limbs where there are commonly used acupuncture points. Try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse. You should also avoid alcohol and food or drink that colours your tongue.