Acupuncture

What will happen at the first visit?

The first visit lasts approximately one hour and consists of an initial consultation and the first treatment. The acupuncturist will:

• Start by explaining about how acupuncture works
• Take a detailed case history, exploring all health issues
• Examine the pulse and tongue which give an indication of what is happening energetically inside the body
• Make a diagnosis and discuss it with the patient

If consent is given for treatment to proceed the acupuncturist will:

• Explain what will happen and where the acupuncture needles will be inserted
• Use single use sterile needles
• Explain what the patient should feel (a pleasant, unusual sensation)
• Leave the needles in for between 10-20 minutes on average
• Discuss lifestyle advice

Will I only be treated with acupuncture needles?

Acupuncture treatment will often consist of other techniques that work with the acupuncture needles to provide a thorough treatment. For example, the acupuncturist may also use:

Moxa

Moxa is a herb that can be used in a stick form or wrapped around the head of a needle. It is burnt to create heat, which is directed at specific acupuncture points to encourage the body's energy to flow smoothly.

Electro Acupuncture

Electro acupuncture is the stimulation of the needles by passing a low electrical current through the needle. Electro acupuncture is extremely good at moving areas of stagnated energy.

Cupping

Cups create a vacuum over particular acupuncture points on the body. They create a suction over the area, which stimulates the acupuncture points, moves stagnated energy and helps clear toxins from the body.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required will vary from patient to patient. Our acupuncturist will agree on the number of treatments required after the initial consultation. The average number of treatments is six, but the greater the illness, and the longer it has existed, the more treatments will be required. Equally, if a problem has just occurred only a couple of treatments may be necessary. All treatment will usually be weekly, with follow up treatments lasting between 30-45 minutes.

For an appointment to discuss your case with our qualified acupuncturist, please call the Body Consultancy reception on 01202 755721