Acupuncture
Chinese medicine including acupuncture, is the oldest medical tradition in the world, and is still the main form of medical care used by over 1.5 billion people worldwide. Its theoretical basis was first recorded in the Book of the Yellow Emperor, which dates back to between the first century BC and the first century AD. Acupuncture treatment is recognized by the World Health Organisation which has published more than 100 indications for its use.
Illness and pain occur when the body’s qi, or vital energy, cannot flow freely. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points on the body to rebalance a person, trigger the body’s natural healing response and thereby restore health.
In addition to needling acupuncture points, treatment may also include:
Cupping: glass cups with a vacuum are placed on areas of the body to stimulate blood flow and clear blocked energy.
Guasha: guasha massage increases blood flow and clears blocked energy.
Tuina: Chinese massage helps relieve muscle tension
Acupuncture treats a wide range of disorders including:
- Musculoskeletal conditions and pain
- Headache and migraine
- Stress and anxiety
- Digestive disorders such as IBS, constipation, bloating
- Poor immunity
- Menstrual disorders, irregular cycle, painful periods, absence of periods, heavy periods
- Menopausal symptoms, hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
Before Treatment: Eat a light snack. It is better not to come for treatment on an empty stomach.
Avoid eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol, coffee, tea or fizzy drinks for 2 hrs before the treatment. (Part of the diagnosis involves having the pulse taken and these can affect the reading).
After Treatment: You are likely to feel relaxed and calm. Sometimes you may feel drowsy. It is worth remembering this if you need to drive anywhere straight after treatment.