Despite the reduction in cost you can expect a high quality of care.
Jane has over 30 years of experience in health care working with patients. As a member of the British Acupuncture Council, strict Code of Practice are adhered to. Please CLICK HERE to visit The British Acupuncture Council.
What happens when I first go for treatment?
Your first visit will take about 1½ hours with subsequent visits lasting between ¾ hour to 1hour. At the initial consultation you will be asked about your current symptoms and any treatment you might be undergoing. You will also be asked in some detail about your health in general, medical history and lifestyle. All this gives important information in order to make a diagnosis using Chinese Medicine. You will then have needles inserted into specific acupuncture points relevant to your diagnosis.
What does it feel like?
Acupuncture needles are finer than needles used to give injections or take blood. When the needle is inserted you may feel a tingling or dull sensation. Most people find acupuncture treatments relaxing.
What Conditions can be treated?
The Advertising Standards Agency no longer allows acupuncturists to list conditions treated by acupuncture. Please CLICK HERE to link to the World Health Organisation and view their list of conditions for which acupuncture can be used.
What about Privacy?
Your first consultation will be in private, in a separate room to the one you will receive treatment in. At subsequent appointments the discussion as to your progress will be in the main treatment room. If at any time you wish further private discussion, this can be arranged, just ask. by speaking to Eileen or Jane.
Screens are used to divide up the treatment area, allowing patient to feel they have their ‘own space’ while the acupuncture needles are doing their work.
Many commonly used acupuncture points are located on the lower arm and lower leg, avoiding the necessity to remove clothing. If points on your back or tummy are used privacy is ensured with the use of blankets.
Some people feel more comfortable having treatment in the relaxed open space of the community setting.
Is it safe?
The results of two independent surveys published in the British Medical Journal in 2001, (MacPhearson et al, White et al, both BMJ September 2001) concluded that the risk of serious adverse reaction to acupuncture is less than 1 in 10,000. The needles are sterile single use and disposable. Response to treatment can sometimes include tiredness or mild dizziness, and very occasionally mild bruising may occur, all such reactions are however short lived.
Should my doctor know?
If you have been prescribed medication it is recommended you tell your doctor you are planning on having acupuncture.
Do not stop taking your medication. You should always tell your acupuncturist about any medication or supplement you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.
BAcC acupuncturists are trained to recognise any potentially serious underlying health conditions and may refer you to your GP if appropriate.
How should I prepare for treatment?
It is advisable not to go for treatment on an empty stomach or after a heavy meal, and to avoid alcohol before an acupuncture treatment.
Some acupuncture points are located on the lower arm and legs, so it is helpful to wear loose fitting clothing which can be rolled up.
You should refrain from vigorous exercise after treatment, and ideally, give yourself a little time to rest. It is advisable not to drink alcohol for several hours after treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Frequency and number of sessions depends on your individual condition and how long you have been troubled by it. Some change is usually felt within 5 – 6 treatments, although occasionally just one or two treatments may be sufficient. You may be asked to attend weekly to begin with. Some people choose to have regular acupuncture to maintain good health.
