DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
What happens when you come for treatment?
Your initial consultation will take up to an hour and a half. This consists of a personal and medical consultation covering your family history, lifestyle, systems functions (eg. sleep, appetite) and full details of your current complaint/s. You will also have the opportunity to discuss in complete confidence any concerns or troubles you may have. After your consultation I will carry out a number of short non invasive physical diagnostic tests including blood pressure, temperature distribution and pulse taking. This is followed by your first treatment. Subsequent appointments take up to three quarters of an hour, and include discussion of your progress and your treatment.
What does it feel like?
Many patients are concerned that acupuncture maybe painful, but as the needles are flexible and about as thick as two human hairs, there is usually only a very slight sensation as the needle enters the skin. Sometimes patients also feel a dull ache on the acupuncture point but this only lasts for a few seconds. Most people find acupuncture relaxing and often feel very calm after a treatment. You may feel a little tired or sleepy.
Is it safe?
Acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments, both conventional and complementary, on offer in the UK. In 2001 a number of studies concluded that the risk of serious adverse reaction to acupuncture is less than 1 in 10,000. Any minor side effects that do occur, such as dizziness or bruising around needle points, are mild and self-correcting. To see more information regarding the safety of acupuncure please visit The Acupuncture Council website: Is acupuncture safe?