Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest and safest medical treatments in the world. It is aimed at treating the root cause of a condition as well as the main symptoms. A holistic therapy, traditional Chinese Acupuncture treats the whole person – body and mind. It can be effective treatment for a range of conditions.
Traditional Chinese Medical theory views pain and illness as an indication that the body is out of balance. The aim of acupuncture treatment is to stimulate the body’s natural healing system and restore health and equilibrium.
Traditional Acupuncture works by helping to restore balance to the body’s vital energy or ‘Qi’. Acupuncturists insert very fine needles into specific points throughout the body, along pathways known as ‘meridians’, to regulate body processes and functions, balance the body energies, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation. Other techniques can include moxibustion and cupping.
Since 2009, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has recommended that Acupuncture should be made available on the NHS, as a cost-effective short-term treatment for the management of early, persistent non-specific lower back pain. NICE now recommend Acupuncture as one of the alternatives to prescription drugs to treat chronic primary pain.
An acupuncturist at our clinic will take your medical history and read your pulse. They may examine the site of your symptoms, and they may look at your tongue.
Your individual treatment plan will be based on your current health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will decide which combination of points is right for your whole body, as well as your symptoms. Sometimes acupuncture needles are inserted for just a second or two, or you may be asked to rest for a while before the needles are removed.
If an alternative technique such as moxibustion or cupping is considered, your acupuncturist will explain these to you. The single-use sterile needles come in sealed packs and all needles are safely disposed of after each treatment. A well-trained acupuncturist will always have a clean clinic, will cleanse their hands frequently and will never needle you through your clothing.
Where will the appointment take place?
The appointments will take place in the multibed clinic. This a room with up to four treatment couches separated by screens for privacy. The first appointment will take place in private so that you can say everything you want to say, in confidence.
Patients should be aware that, while screens allow for a measure of privacy, other people in the room will be able to overhear conversation, and absolute privacy cannot be guaranteed. If you have any worries or you need to say something in private, please tell the practitioner.
Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people don’t feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as your acupuncturist adjusts the needle. Many people feel deeply relaxed during the treatment. Those people with an aversion to needles often end up enjoying acupuncture due to its positive effects and relaxing treatments.
Acupuncture needles are very thin, and most people experience minimal discomfort during treatment. Sensations may vary from person to person, but many describe the sensation as a slight tingling or dull ache.
Where do the acupuncture needles go?
Most of the acupuncture points will be on the lower arms and legs, head and/or ears. For some conditions, points on the abdomen will also be used with your permission. Patients should wear loose clothing to minimise any need to undress.
How much do I have to pay?
The youth multibed clinic is by voluntary donation. We suggest £5-20 but it is not compulsory and you can still come to the clinic if you cannot afford to make a donation.
When are the appointments?
Appointments are currently available on Saturday afternoons every other week. You can book your first appointment online or phone 01342 313106. If you do not see an appointment online please phone as there are occasionally other appointment slots available and you can also ask to be put on the cancellation list. We will do our best to fit you in.
Who will treat me?
We have a very kind, sympathetic and approachable team of volunteers who are operating on a rota. If you come for more than one appointment we cannot guarantee you will see the same person. All of our volunteers are members of the British Acupuncture Council and all of them were trained at our college and underwent degree level, rigorous training.
