Frequently asked questions about acupuncture

The acupuncture profession is not regulated so anyone can call themselves an acupuncturist!

Both our acupuncturist are fully trained, are members of the British Acupuncture Council and hold appropriate insurance.

When choosing an acupuncturist it is very important that you make sure that your chosen practitioner is fully qualified, is insured and understands the nature of any pre-existing medical conditions you may have.

Can I be a blood donor after having acupuncture?

As there is no regulation of the acupuncture profession the blood donor service has decided not to accept blood from anyone who has had acupuncture within the previous four months. The is due to the very small risk of hepatitis, which can be a problem if proper hygiene procedures are not followed.

Rest assured that we do everything possible to minimise this risk

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Generally no. Anyone who has experienced both will tell you the techniques used are miles apart. The needles used are the same but that is where the similarity ends.

Acupuncture in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic form of acupuncture. This means that you are treated as whole person not just as a painful elbow, a skin rash, a painful period or whatever happens to the manifestation of your problem. Therefore the case history and the examination is far more comprehensive and the diagnosis is based on several factors such as your mental and physical wellbeing, the appearance of your tongue (colour, shape, smoothness, coating), the quality of your pulse in your wrist etc. These are all part of the holistic approach to any person seeking help from an acupuncturist who is trained in Chinese Medicine. Those who are not TCM trained use Western Acupuncture or Dry Needling. Both of these methods are very symptom targeted and far less comprehensive in their approach to the underlying problems causing your your discomfort. Therefore the needling technique and the needling sites are also different.

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Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a trained acupuncturist acupuncture is very safe. Almost certainly a lot safer than any medication you may be taking for your complaint.

We only use blister packed sterile disposable needles so there is no risk of cross infection.

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Does the treatment hurt?

The insertion of the needles causes little or no discomfort, but a localised ache may be felt when the acupuncture point is reached.

How often will I have to come?/How soon will I feel better?

Treatment can produce rapid results but usually a course of treatment is required, normally 5-10 weekly appointments.

As each treatment plan is tailor-made it is important that you discuss the options and duration of the course with the acupuncturist.