Acupuncturist Consultation (30 mins)
Acupuncture is an ancient system of treatment, which developed in SE Asia over 2500 years ago. It involves using sterilised, single-use needles that are very thin and flexible. These are inserted into places in your skin that the experience of thousands of years has shown to be beneficial for your health and the relief of pain.I have trained for example in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Channel and Ear acupuncture. They each have different strengths and approaches. Personally I favour Channel and Japanese acupuncture, although I've practised Chinese-style acupuncture for over 35 years. My original training was in Five-Element acupuncture, which I also use regularly.Many patients come first for pain or other health issues.Research: Western medicine makes big claims for success although when you examine them, many (apparently over 80%!) drugs when tested are found to be ineffective. Very little testing has been done on acupuncture, but the results are gradually accumulating in its favour. How do I know where to place the needles? Based on theory (almost as much theory as Western medicine!) and after discussion with you, I may take your pulse the Chinese way, examine your abdomen and/or where there is discomfort or pain, look at your tongue, and do a series of other forms of examination. Only then can I come to a diagnosis and be able to make a treatment plan and start to help you.Acupuncture is almost painless, has few side-effects, and often leaves people feeling wonderfully relaxed and comfortable with themselves.Sometimes I may do what is called 'cupping', 'moxibustion', or other treatment connected with acupuncture, or recommend herbs or nutritional or other changes or treatments.
