Questions and Answers

Q: What does Acupuncture feel like?
A: Most people's experience of needles is of those used in injections and blood tests. Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to these. They are much finer and are solid rather than hollow.

Needles are inserted via a plastic guide tube. The guide tube is placed on the skin, gentle pressure is then applied diverting the attention of the nerve endings so that the needle can be easily tapped into the skin. Generally this process is painlessly but sometimes it can hurt for a few seconds.

Once the needles are in place the sensation felt is often described as a tingling, dull ache, numbness, or just a weird feeling. Needles are inserted for 20 minutes or less depending on the effect required.

During treatment, patients commonly experience heaviness in the limbs or a pleasant feeling of relaxation. The benefits of acupuncture frequently include more than just relief from a particular condition. Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels, better appetite and sleep as well as an enhanced sense of overall wellbeing.

Q: Does it hurt?
A: Acupuncture is not painless but neither can it be described as painful. Most people's experience of needles is of those used in injections and blood tests. Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to these. They are much finer, and are solid rather than hollow. When the needle is inserted, the sensation is often described as a tingling. Needles are inserted via a plastic guide tube. The guide tube is placed on the skin; gentle pressure is then applied diverting the attention of the nerve endings so that the needle can be easily tapped into the skin. Generally this process is painlessly but sometimes it can hurt for a few seconds.

Q: What should I do before treatment?
A: Please wear loose, comfortable clothing.  Have something to eat but try not to have a big meal within an hour of your appointment, as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse. Also avoid alcohol and food or drinks which colour your tongue (such as coffee) immediately prior to treatment.

Q: How will I feel after acupuncture?
A: 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 flair up of your symptoms as your Qi clears and resettles itself.

Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This varies between patients. Certainly a course of treatment is required, one off miracle cures are unusual! Some changes either in yourself generally, or in your condition directly should be noticed after 4 - 6 treatments.

Q: What about the needles used?
A: I use single use pre-sterilised disposable needles, which are disposed of after each treatment. British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) members observe a Code of Practice which lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation for other equipment.

Q: Is it safe?
A: All members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) must observe a Code of Practice, which lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation for needles and other equipment. These procedures have been approved by the Department of Health, and provide protection against the transmission of infectious diseases. Patients who have been treated by a BAcC member are eligible to donate blood through the National Blood Service.

Q: Why should I go to a BAcC member?
A: As a BAcC member I have had extensive training in acupuncture and bio medical sciences appropriate to the practice of acupuncture in the UK. As well as being covered by full Medical Malpractice and Public/ Products Liability Insurance, I am also bound by strict Codes of Ethics, and Practice and Disciplinary Procedures.

Q: What is the difference between the BAcC and the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS)?
A: We understand that the BMAS takes members who are doctors who have an interest in acupuncture. Sometimes they have only had training at weekend workshops.

The BAcC members have an extensive training in acupuncture (irrespective of any prior western medical training) of at least 3 years full-time (or the part-time equivalent) and which includes the requisite western medical sciences.

Q: Should I tell my doctor?
A: If you are receiving treatment from your doctor then it makes sense to tell him or her about your plans to have acupuncture. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication, but your doctor should be consulted regarding any change of prescription.

You should always tell me about any medication you are taking.  This may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.

Q: Should I continue with my prescribed medication while undergoing a course of acupuncture treatment?
A: 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.