What is Acupuncture?
For a 2000-year-old medicine originating in China, acupuncture has gained wide acceptance throughout the world. Acupuncture in China is now used both as a stand-alone therapy and in conjunction with conventional Western medicine. In this country, acupuncture has steadily grown in popularity; the appearance in 2009 of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommendation that acupuncture be made available on the N.H.S. as a cost-effective, short-term treatment for the management of early, non-specific lower back pain added to the growing acceptance of acupuncture by the medical profession and public alike.
Acupuncture (the insertion through the skin of fine, hair-like needles) affects our Qi (our vital energy), which may have become disturbed, blocked or depleted; people choose acupuncture to restore a balance to their vital energy, whether they have specific symptoms or conditions, or as a preventive measure. An acupuncturist never forgets that he or she is committed to seeing the person as well as the complaint and this holistic approach means that when a particular complaint improves, other problems may well show improvement, too.
So, who might seek help from acupuncture?
It is considered suitable for all ages – from babies to the elderly – and it can be used effectively alongside conventional medicine.
A course of acupuncture begins with a 2-hour session in which the practitioner takes a full case history (noting details of your GP and any medication prescribed); a physical examination and blood pressure test are carried out, and the first needling takes place. Pulse-taking (we have 12 Chinese pulses!) and examination of the tongue are also used regularly. Subsequent sessions are usually of 1 hour.
What does acupuncture feel like?
The sensation felt can be described as a momentary tingling or dull ache. Most people report a feeling of calm and wellbeing following acupuncture.
You can find out more about practitioners and access further information on acupuncture and its effectiveness by going to the website of our governing body, the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC): www.acupuncture.org.uk
We are very happy to discuss treatment issues by telephone; or if you would like to meet us and discuss further please telephone the clinic on 01932 888663.
Alternatively you can call the therapist directly:
Lior Levy on 07866 506 580, levylior2000@yahoo.com