What happens at the consultation?
During the consultation and before deciding what treatment will be needed, your practitioner will look carefully at your tongue and examine the pulses in both of your wrists. This method of diagnosis is intrinsic to Chinese medicine. The tongue through its shape, colour and coating indicates the condition of your internal organs, and there are 28 different qualities which can be felt on the pulse by an experienced practitioner. You will also be asked about your medical history and lifestyle in order to gain an overall picture of the state of your health. Your first consultation including treatment will last for approximately one hour.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine sterile needles into points on the body. These specific acupoints are located along the meridians (channels), which form a network of pathways and are connected to the internal organs. The aim of acupuncture is to regulate and unblock any stagnation of Qi, and so encourage the body’s own natural healing system to restore balance and good health.
Is acupuncture painful?
No. When the needles are inserted there may be an occasional minimal discomfort. Patients sometimes describe the initial feeling as a tingling sensation, which indicates that the treatment is having an effect. Others describe the feeling as a numbness at the point of entry or as slightly heavy or dull. The needles are usually left in place for about 15 - 30 minutes. Many people will feel very relaxed or even sleepy after treatment.
Is Traditional ChineseMedicine safe?
Chinese Medicine has been used for over 5000 years and is relied on by over a quarter of the world’s population. When used by an experienced practitioner, both acupuncture and herbal medicine are effective and safe remedies without either side effects or dependency.
We only use sterile, single-use acupuncture needles which are safely disposed of afterwards. All of our herbs and herbal medicines are plant based and sourced from companies who observe the required high standards of safety and quality.
What herbs are used?
There are over 300/400 herbs in common use, derived from wild and cultivated Chinese plants. Generally a herbal prescription can contain up to 12 different herbs and may be prescribed to be brewed and taken as a tea, or supplied in tablet or capsule form, or as a cream or lotion for topical use. We use no animal parts.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies from patient to patient depending on how long you have had the condition, and will be discussed with you at the first consultation. Generally the more acute problem will respond more quickly, some conditions improving after only one or two treatments. For longer lasting chronic conditions it is important to allow the treatment time to take effect. For many conditions we would normally advise weekly treatments at first, reducing to fortnightly and then monthly appointments as the condition improves.
Should I stop taking my current medicine?
No. Chinese medicine is a complementary medicine, and works alongside Western medicine. However, it is important that you let us know about any medication you are taking.
Is Traditional Chinese Medicine suitable for everyone?
Chinese Medicine is used on all age groups from the very young to the elderly. For young children, or adults overly anxious about needles, we would recommend acupressure instead of acupuncture, when the fingertips, not needles, are used to stimulate the acupoints.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
Definitely not. Acupuncture is also successfully used to treat animals who obviously have no ability to believe in it.
How much does the treatment cost?
For price details without any obligation please telephone or call in at your preferred clinic (see Contact us page)
Can Chinese Medicine work when other treatments have failed?
Yes. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are often successful in cases of chronic disease, acute pain or stress related problems, which have not responded to conventional western medicine.