What happens at the initial consultation?

Your first appointment will typically last approximately 90 minutes (follow up treatments last an hour) and will consist of a thorough consultation. If it is your very first experience of acupuncture, time will be dedicated to explaining what will happen in order to ensure your complete comfort and relaxation.

A full understanding of a person’s general health and lifestyle is required for optimal treatment. Therefore details of the main complaint will be taken in great depth and questions will be asked about medical history and factors such as sleeping patterns, appetite, digestion and emotional wellbeing. Some questions may seem unrelated to the main complaint, however it builds a complete picture for an accurate diagnosis in Chinese Medicine. Where necessary, a physical examination will be performed.

What about the needles? 

Fine, single-use, pre-sterilised, disposable needles are used at specific acupuncture points on the body to stimulate energy.

What should I wear?

Because many acupuncture points are located on the lower arms and legs, it is helpful to wear clothing that allows easy access to these areas.  

What other treatments are there?

Other Chinese Medicine techniques may be used such as:

• moxibustion: in which heat is applied to an acupuncture point or area using moxa (a therapeutic herb) to warm and relax muscles and move energy
• Tuina: which is Chinese therapeutic massage and is used to relieve muscle tension and stimulate acupressure points
• cupping: glass cups with a vacuum seal are placed onto the skin to stimulate blood flow and clear stagnated energy
• guasha: which involves rubbing of the skin to increase blood flow.

How will I feel after a treatment?

Most people find acupuncture relaxing and often feel very calm after a treatment. It is possible to feel a little tired or sleepy, therefore it is best to refrain, after treatment, from anything too demanding. Advice may be given regarding lifestyle. Where necessary, referral to other healthcare practitioners for specialist care may be suggested.