Frequently Asked Questions about AcupunctureDo you have a question about this treatment and how it can help you? CALL DENISE TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT OR FREE CONSULTATION info@goodeacupuncture.com
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What are Herbal Remedies & Are they safe?
These are patent herbal remedies made to recognised, tried and tested formulas and suitable for acute and chronic conditions. Pre-prepared in pill, capsule, liquid or cream form they are used to support acupuncture treatment or on their own. Remedies used meet internationally agreed health and safety standards. None contain endangered species and very few animal products. If this is a concern alternatives can be found.
How will I feel after acupuncture?
Usually rather relaxed and calm. Occasionally you may feel tired or drowsy for a few hours if the treatment has been particularly strong or there may be a short term flare up of your symptoms as your Qi (vital energy) clears and resettles itself.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies between patients. Certainly a course of treatment is required; this therapy is not designed to be a ‘quick fix’. Some changes either in yourself generally, or in your condition directly, should be noticed after 4-6 treatments, most report changes quite quickly.
Is there any scientific research on Qi and how it can be affected by acupuncture?
For thousands of years acupuncture has been accepted by eastern cultures as working, because they see the results. Now it is integrated into Western Medicine there is the need for scientific proof. Recent experiments have found that the insertion of needles, to access the vital energy (or qi) by a traditional acupuncturist can stimulate the respective part of the brain. For example a point on the ankle used for eye problems, when stimulated elicited a response in the part of the brain governing the visual control.
Should I continue with my prescribed medication while undergoing a course of acupuncture treatment?
Yes, at least until careful discussion is had with your doctor or the practitioner who prescribed the medication. Many people seek the help of an acupuncturist because of dissatisfaction with drug treatment - because it does not seem to be working or because the side effects are unacceptable. DO NOT stop taking any medication without professional guidance.
How Can I help the Outcome of the Treatment?
The treatment takes an holistic approach and your practitioner will make recommendations to modify diet, lifestyle and exercise if appropriate. The principle is to make changes to support the treatment and empower the patient to maintain good health after the treatment has finished.
How can I find out more?
Call Denise Goode on 01256 781086 or visit the British Acupuncture Council website.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Some people would like to try acupuncture but don't because they assume it will be painful. Most people's experience of needles is of those used in injections and blood tests; acupuncture needles are much finer than these. When the needle is inserted, sometimes only a slight needle prick is experienced and the sensation is often described as a tingling.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to health where illness is an imbalance in the body's 'vital energy' or Qi. Imbalances can be caused by many factors, both emotional and physical, and lead to fatigue, stress and a range of disorders. Acupuncture helps restore the balance in the body, trigger the body's own self-healing mechanism and enhances well-being.
Is acupuncture safe and how can I guarantee the quality of the practitioner?
All members of the British Acupuncture Council must observe the Code of Safe Practice which defines the hygiene and safety standards relating to the practice of acupuncture. These procedures have been approved by the Department of Health. Members use pre-sterilised disposable needles which are discarded after each treatment.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Acupuncture and moxibustion can be used for pre-conception care, antenatal care and postnatally. It is a natural, safe, health-care system, but should only be administered by an experienced practitioner.
What is Moxibustion
Moxa is frequently used alongside acupuncture to treat a variety of conditions. It is a therapy which involves burning the herb mugwort (Artemesiae Vulgaris) at acupuncture points. It stimulates circulation and nourishes blood and Qi or vital energy, is very useful in chronic conditions and can be effectively used to turn breech babies.
What is Cupping?
This is a pain free treatment with the use of glass or plastic suction cups. It is effective at drawing out pathogens from the body such as those experienced with a cold i.e. stiff neck, aching muscles. It stimulates the blood and energy in the body, effectively clearing 'stagnation' associated with muscle and joint pain, digestive and period pain. Cupping can leave marks on the body (you might have seen Gweneth Paltrow in the newspapers), these usually only stay for a few days and create no long term problems.
What is Tuina?
Tuina is thought to date back to about 1700BC. An external therapeutic massage technique, it is used to support acupuncture treatment in unblocking the body's energy system. It can also be used to relax patients before treatment.