Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the practice of using very fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to encourage a healing and corrective response. It has a history of over 2500 years and is thought to originate in China. It can be used for all health problems and is now widely practised around the world by thousands of practitioners of all nationalities.

The World Health Organisation has proven acupuncture to be effective for treating the following problems:

• Infections, including Bronchitis, Candida and Hepatitis;
• Skin Problems, including Eczema and Acne;
• Pain, including Back pain, Sciatica, Migraine and Arthritis;
• Gynaecological Disorders, including Impotence, Infertility, PMS and Menstrual problems;
• Emotional Problems, including Depression, Stress and Insomnia;
• General Health Issues, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, Diabetes, Hypoglycemia, Deafness and Hay Fever.

Acupuncture works on the theory that the body gets its energy from digesting food. This energy then has to travel from the digestive system into the cells all around the body. It does this through the blood but also through pathways called meridians. The energy finally ends up in the organs where they use it up. Every organ has its own meridian and this travels around the body through various parts of the body. By using points on the meridians we can improve the way that the organs work and so help to restore balance and good health.

What happens during a treatment?

After a consultation points are chosen on the body that relate to the problem being treated. One needle is inserted into each point and the needles are then left in place for up to 30 minutes. After this time the needles are removed and the patient is free to carry on with life as normal. At times acupuncture has an instantly energising effect and at other times you can feel slightly tired or overly relaxed after a treatment – this is caused by a detoxifying process that takes place during the treatment and is very positive. Acupuncture can instantly induce a feeling of calm and relaxation. It is not painful but can produce 'unusual' sensations such as tingling, heaviness or heat in various parts of the body. These are all known to be positive aspects of the treatment. Acupuncture is frequently but not always used in conjunction with herbal medicine.
How long does a treatment last?

Generally it is recommended to have a course of acupuncture which consists of having one session of treatment each week for 4 weeks. This is a good time span to see the effects of the treatment and then decide if more treatment is needed at the end. Most problems can be resolved between 4 – 16 treatments but some are quicker or longer to treat.

Andrew's clinic is based in Burnham, Buckinghamshire. To book a free 15 minute Health Consultation, please call 01628 668 339, or email him by clicking here.