What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originated in China over 3000 years ago. It is holistic medicine based on the principles of Qi flow, yin, yang and the relationships between the 5 elements found in the body. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxa, bodywork, qi gong and nutritional advice are all tools used by practitioners of TCM. It is used for the treatment of physical disease, emotional problems, health maintenance and preventive care. It has been used effectively to help patients relieve physical and mental ailments whilst nourishing the mind and spirit. It is potent yet gentle all natural health care system.
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that acupuncture regulates the flow of Qi (energy) along established pathways in the body in order to prevent or cure energy imbalances and obstructions that lead to pain and other internal disorders. It stimulates the body to adjust the Qi flow and heal itself.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Everybody responds differently to acupuncture. Acupuncture needles are typically not much thicker than a human hair. Upon insertion you may feel a slight pinch but it is nothing like receiving an injection. In some cases, you won't even know the needles are in place. In others, there may be some tingling, warmth, heaviness or feeling of the Qi moving up or down the channel. This is a desirable effect. Most people find acupuncture extremely relaxing and many even fall asleep during the treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will vary depending on your health care concern and how you respond to treatment. Acupuncture has a cumulative effect so works best in a series of treatments. I like to ask my patients to have a least three sessions before discussing and agreeing to the ongoing treatment plan. I usually suggest one treatment per week, sometimes two if the situation is more acute. The frequency of treatments reduces as the condition improves. I have treated people whose pain or ailment is eased in one treatment, but I have also treated people who respond only after several treatments. It is an individual experience and depending on the degree and complexity of the injury or ailment , treatment length varies.
What are treatments like?
During your first appointment, I collect details about the reason for your visit as well as your your health history and lifestyle. Based on this information, I make a diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan. After the interview, we proceed with your first acupuncture treatment. Needles are placed according to your diagnosis and then you rest with them for 20-30 minutes. After that, the needles are removed and any nutritional advice or herbal recommendations will be discussed. The first treatment lasts about 90 minutes, follow ups are only an hour. At follow up treatments, I check in for any changes in your condition and then proceed with the treatment plan.
What do I need to know before recieving an acupuncture treatment?
The following suggestions will help you to get the maximum benefits from our treatment.
1. Wear loose comfortable clothing that pulls up easily over knees and elbows.
2. Avoid treatment when excessively fatigued, hungry, emotionally upset or when not sober.
3. Relax and enjoy. The needles stay in place for 20-30 minutes. During this quiet time most people experience deep relaxation and a peaceful sense of well-being, a welcome relief to a stressful day
How much does it cost?
Initial Treatment....£60
Follow-Ups............£45
Cupping................£35
Pre-pay and Student discounts available.
Where is the clinic?
Monday through Thursday: Lanner The clinic at Amelia Cottage, on Pennance Road