Frequently asked questions

FAQ

What are the main types of Acupuncture in the UK?

There are several main styles of acupuncture in use.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
TCM analyses information gleaned through the four methods of diagnosis - Looking, asking, listening and palpating. Treatment is based on the pattern which emerges Five Elements Acupuncture
Wu Xing, the Five Transformations (or elements), observes the main ways in which qi behaves and evolves It has been an important aspect of Chinese Medicine for most of it's history A system using the Five Elements theory alone was developed in England in the early 70's by JR Worsley I use Five Elements all the time, but in a broader, more traditional context Western (Medical) Acupuncture
Used by western medical practitioners, the emphasis is on treating muscles and nerves,usually for pain control Does not usually consider traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment Dry Needling
Often referred to as acupuncture, this is frequently taught as a weekend course for doctors, physios, osteopaths and chiropractors It is useful for tight muscles and pain but obviously limited in scope BAcC members use a variety of styles, but all have trained for an average of 3500 hours over three to four years, and are able to treat a wide range of conditions



What diseases can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture affects a huge range of conditions (see our Register's booklet - The Scope of Acupuncture).
Rather than treating diseases as such, we focus on the person experiencing the symptoms, so a given condition could be treated in very different ways.
If you ask people you know, you will get an idea of what sort of problems have been helped.



What can I do to help with the treatment?

A lot! Take a look at Helping Yourself page for suggestions Avoid alcohol or heavy meals before the treatment, but don’t go hungry -a light meal is fine Try not do do heavy exercise immediately after treatment unless you are training hard daily.



Does it hurt?

My style of acupuncture uses fine needles, with gentle stimulation. Although it is possible to feel strong sensations, most patients enjoy the treatment The sensations of tingling, warmth or heaviness are welcome signs of activity Massage, pressure, cupping, warming and even light touch may also be used in treatment



Is it safe?

Acupuncture from properly trained practitioners is one of the safest therapies in the UK. In a recent BAcC survey of 68,000 treatments there were only 14 minor adverse events. It is worth asking how many hours of one-to-one training a practitioner has had. BAcC members have around 3,500 hours training on average, and follow a strict Code of Safe Practice including registration with the local council.
There is a good information in our Register's booklet - The Scope of Acupuncture



How will I feel after acupuncture?

You may feel relaxed and calm, possibly a little tired, or energized immediately after treatment Sometimes the symptoms can worsen briefly and you would then expect a good improvement



Should I continue with my prescribed medication during acupuncture treatment?

Yes, at least until you have discussed this with your doctor Do not stop taking any medication without professional guidance



Do you offer concessionary rates?

I have a quota of patients receiving concessions It is full at the moment, but I would be glad to add you to the list if you ask



Will my private health insurance cover me?

Many health insurance companies including AXA PPP will pay
Please check first, as you may need to be referred by a doctor or consultant, and cover may be limited



Can I park at the clinic?

There is a car park at the clinic. You can use any of the spaces on either side except the one for people with disabilities. Ignore the threatening signs.



When is the best time to phone?

Try between 8:00 and 6:00 weekdays If I am treating I can return calls fairly promptly, so do leave a message You can also text or email, or use the contact form here on the site



Do you help with fertility?

I am very happy to help with couples wishing to conceive naturally. Many couples have conceived after improving the health of both partners with acupuncture and lifestyle to support a pregnancy. I am not keen to treat if the couple are in high-powered jobs, living on stimulants and fast food and hoping that IVF will be the solution...



What should I wear?

I treat mostly on the back and limbs but I may need to use points anywhere on the body in order to be effective, and it is usually easiest to work with you in underwear If you are self conscious, please wear loose lightweight clothing or bring a suitable gown I will always try to preserve your modesty so please let me know if you are at all uncomfortable



How much do you charge?

I charge £75 for the first visit (1 hour), and £60 for follow-ups (45 minutes) My experience and integrated approach usually mean fewer treatments are required so you may well be paying less overall



Are you working?

My clinic is open for "Careful Practice" on Wednesdays to Fridays at the moment, which means among other things: • You will need to confirm you don't have Covid symptoms (strangely enough...) • I will ask you to wait in your car and I will collect you at your appointment time • We will normally both need to wear masks • I'll ask you to bring your own towel or gown if you like to be covered during treatment



Can You Recommend a Simple Book on Acupuncture?

"A Guide To Acupuncture" is very clear and accurate. It was written by my colleagues Peter Firebrace and Sandra Hill. You can find it for around £2.50 at Abe Books - https://www.abebooks.co.uk



 

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