How does acupuncture work?

It is demonstrably true that inserting and manipulating fine needles at specific points in the body releases endorphins and increases blood circulation. This however does not account for many other well documented health benefits of acupuncture.

Although acupuncture has more support than ever now in the West, the mechanisms that underpin it are not completely understood.

Those trained and experienced in Traditional Chinese Medicine would say that under normal circumstances, assuming adequate nutrition, rest and environmental conditions, the body is a self-healing organic machine.

Simply said, acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s own self-healing mechanism; we help the body to help itself.

Does acupuncture hurt?

When most people think of needles, they recall an experience getting an injection, or having blood taken with a hypodermic needle.

Acupuncture needles are much finer and not hollow.

Needles are tapped in very quickly using a guide tube, you may or may not feel the needle going in.

After insertion, you are expected to feel a tingle or dull ache around the point needled, this sensation means that the needle is working.

Needles are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Chronic long-standing disease usually needs more treatments than recently-developed acute ailments, but everyone is unique and responds to treatment differently.

What do I need to do to prepare for an acupuncture treatment ?

Wear comfortable, loose clothing that can easily be rolled up to knees and elbows, please don’t wear heavy make-up or strong fragrance.

Try not to come when you are very hungry or immediately after a large meal.

How will I feel after having acupuncture ?

Some patients report slight drowsiness, or even mild light-headedness, many feel normal, most feel calm and relaxed after treatment. The after-effects of acupuncture tend to manifest most noticeably in the 72 hours following treatment.

Nick is a proud member of the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ATCM). The Association is the largest regulatory body of traditional Chinese medicine in the UK, with over 700 professional members. All practitioners are fully qualified and adhere strictly to professional standards set out in the Code of Professional Conduct and the Code of Practice.