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What is involved in treatment?
Treatment itself involves the insertion of usually 5-10 needles into acupuncture points on the surface of the body. Most energy points are below the knees and elbows, so as long as loose clothing is worn, it is unlikely that you will need to undress for treatment. However, it may be necessary to take some clothing off if a particular part of the body is being treated for example, the shoulder or hip.
The needles are retained for between 20-40 minutes. After the needles are taken out, you are likely to be offered one or two bottles of herbal tablets to take between treatments. They are a complementary treatment to acupuncture and work in a similar way, helping to intensify and shorten treatment. These are easy and convenient to take.
How is a diagnosis made?
The first part of the treatment involves a consultation. You will be asked about your illness, what the symptoms are and how long you have had the condiiton. After this the condition will be diagnosed through Chinese medical differentiation. This involves looking at the shape and colour of your tongue and feeling your pulse in six different positions. Then questions willl be asked about your sleep, diet, energy and your tendency to feel heat or cold etc.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin. Between ten and fifteen acupuncture needles can fit into one conventional hypodermic needle! There is little discomfort when the needles go through the skin. When the needle reaches the acupoint there is a sensation best described as heaviness or a dull ache. This is a good sign, as it shows that the point has been activated and the healing process started. This sensation is generally acceptable and lasts for about a minute. During treatment there may be a pleasant sensation of relaxation.
Is it safe?
The needles used for acupuncture come pre-packaged in sterile containers and are used only once. After being used they are safely disposed of. There is therefore no need to worry about infectious diseases.
Are there any side effects?
The herbal tablets prescribed are mild in their effect and if they prove unsuitable they can be changed for a different prescription without causing harm.
Are endangered species used in herbal remedies?
Not in this country. It is illegal to sell such products. The herbal remedies used at the clinic are sourced from ATCM approved suppliers who abide by strict rules regarding safety and the law. It would also be unethical to use such products and against the general ethos of complementary medicine which strives to do good.
How long will treatment take?
This depends on how serious the complaint is and how long the individual has suffered from it. Chronic conditions take longer to treat. It may take up to 10 treatments. Acute problems may only need 2-3 treatments. Improvements should be noticed within the first few weeks of treatment.
How often should I come for treatment?
Most people come for treatment once a week initially. It may prove more effective to have treatment twice a week for painful conditions, but this may prove difficult due to financial constraints and time pressures. The time between treatments can be increased once significant improvement is seen, particularly if herbal tablets are taken in between treatments.
What if i can't afford treatment?
Treatment can be modified to reduce costs. Acupuncture treatment can be given less frequently with herbal tablets used in between treatments. Also, dietary advice can be given to help improve a condition. This would help the healing process between longer gaps in acupuncture treatment. Alternatively, herbal tablets can be taken on their own for many complaints. This would suit those on a smaller budget.
Is it alright to have treatment while on medication?
Western medicine is designed to supress symptoms. Chinese medicine works to heal the underlying problems which lead to the appearance of symptoms. Therefore, they tend to work on different levels. As a result there is not usually a conflict between western and chinese medicine as they address quite different aspects of a condition. However, if you take warfarin for any complaint, this should be mentioned at the consultation, as certain herbs might amplify it's effect.
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