Acupuncture

What is the traditional acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is a system of healing which aims to restore health by bringing the life energy (Qi) into harmony. According to TCM, our health is dependent on the smooth, uninterrupted flow of Qi. This vital energy is responsible for the proper function of all spiritual, emotional, mental and physical processes. By inserting fine needles into acupoints, the body’s internal healing mechanisms are activated, and the natural harmony is re-established.

What happens during an acupuncture session?

During the acupuncture treatment the patient is usually asked to lie on a couch or sit comfortably. The sterile, fine needles are inserted at certain anatomical points in the body to relieve specific symptoms associated with many diseases. Most of the anatomical points (acupuncture points, acupoints) are located on one of the twelve meridians or energy channels, which create an energy flow (Qi) throughout the body.

The number and location of needles for a particular patient will depend on her/his own condition and the Chinese medicine diagnosis. There are 365 acupoints on the twelve main meridians but there are also many hundred extra points which are sometimes used. Acupuncture needles are so fine that the prick of the needle as it goes through the skin is barely felt. When the needle reaches the required depth and touches the flow of the meridian, the patient may experience dull, sore, or numb sensation, so-called “De Qi”. Needles generally are retained for several minutes to over half an hour and are manipulated manually or with an acupuncture machine during the treatment to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. Unlike Blood-drawing (Venipuncture) or injection with a hypodermic needle, acupuncture does not draw any blood owing to the extreme fineness of the needles used.

Will any other treatments be used?

An acupuncture session may also include the use of moxibustion or infrared heat therapy. In the procedure of moxibustion a cotton-like cone of dried and processed herb Ai Ye (Artemis vulgaris) is placed near or on the skin with a barrier or on needles. It is then lit to smoulder slowly until the patient feels the warm sensation. It is used to warm and promote the patient's Qi. Similarly, infrared heat is applied over an area of the body. This is an example of the incorporation of modern science into ancient Medicine.

Acupuncture treatments today are based on extensive research, and have become widely known and accepted all over the world. In addition, controlled clinic studies/trials have shown evidence of the effectiveness of acupuncture for certain conditions.

Is acupuncture treatment safe?

The procedure is remarkably safe and free from side effects if performed responsibly by someone with an adequate knowledge of anatomy. Minor capillary bleeding is common but generally insignificant.

Acupuncture needles are totally sterile and individually packaged. They are only ever used once, after which they are correctly disposed of.

If you would like to know more about the treatment, please feel free to contact us.

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