Acupuncture

Traditional acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient principles which dates back nearly two thousand years. It is based on a very positive model of good health and function, and looks at pain and illness as signs that the body is out of balance. It works gently with the body’s own natural energies and has proven to be both safe and effective in the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions. Acupuncture is deeply relaxing and many people report a sense of general wellbeing as well as an improvement of symptoms. This is because it treats the whole person, including the body and mind. Acupuncture has been researched, refined and developed over the centuries. It is safe to use alongside conventional medicine, during pregnancy and even for babies and children.

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture work by restoring and maintaining your body’s equilibrium.

It involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, which according to ancient philosophy, helps to regulate the flow of qi, your body’s vital energy.

For a number of reasons qi can become disturbed, depleted or blocked, which in turn causes symptoms of pain and illness.

Does acupuncture really work?

Acupuncture has been tried and tested over the years and is very effective in the majority of people. As with any treatment, people respond differently and some may experience a better result, more quickly than others. Current research, especially into topics such as pain and fertility is extremely positive.

In 2009, even the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) changed their guidelines to recommend acupuncture as a treatment of choice for non-specific lower
back pain.

Is it safe? Are there any side-effects?

Acupuncture has a very good safety record. It is suitable for all ages and it is safe to use during pregnancy.

Responses to treatment can sometimes include tiredness or mild dizziness, and occasionally minor bruising may occur. However, all such reactions are temporary.

How many treatments will I need?

This will depend on a number of factors such as your general state of health, the condition being treated, the severity of the condition, and how long you have had it for. Generally the longer you have had an illness and the more severe it is, the longer it will take to improve. Everyone is different but most people see some change after 4-6 treatments. Some people choose to have regular acupuncture to maintain good health.

How long does a treatment take?

Allow up to an hour and a half for your first treatment. As your acupuncturist, I will need to take a full medical history and ask you a number of other questions. After this initial consultation, treatments normally last 45 minutes to an hour.

What does it feel like?

People often describe a pleasant tingling sensation or a dull ache. The needles used in acupuncture are much finer than injection needles, so any discomfort is minimal.

What can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture is a safe and effective practice which can be used alongside conventional medicine in the treatment of acute and chronic conditions. Some people may choose to have acupuncture as a preventative measure to strengthen their constitution, or because they feel unwell in themselves without being ill in the western sense.

According to the World Health Organisation acupuncture has been shown to be effective in a wide variety of health problems including:

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hayfever)
• Anxiety, Depression and Stress
• Hypertension / Hypotension
• Tension headaches and Migraine
• Sciatica, Chronic back pain, Tennis elbow, Frozen Shoulder and Arthritis
• Digestive problems, Bowel and Bladder Problems
• Insomnia
• Infertility and IVF Support

For more information go to The BAcC website www.acupuncture.org.uk

If you have any further questions or would like to book an appointment contact me on:

Khojesta Qodrat
MBBS, DipCouns, BACAcr, LicAc, MBAcC, AdvCertAc (Bejing)

Call 07957640250 or 02476 676 667