WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON MY FIRST VISIT?

Your first consultation may be longer than subsequent sessions. You will be asked about your current symptoms, treatment you have already received, and details of your medical history, diet, digestion, sleeping patterns and emotional state. This all helps to give you the most effective and bespoke treatment. Anna may need to access points on your front and back as well as on your arms and legs. A gown or blanket will be provided if this is necessary. Acupuncture points chosen may not be close to the part of the body where the problem is experienced, yet will still be treating it along the relevant channel. For example, you may suffer from headaches, but needles might be inserted into your foot rather than your head.

HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?

The number and frequency of treatments required depends on the individual patient and the severity of the condition. Everyone is different and each treatment is specific to that individual, so the time it takes for recovery varies from person to person. Normally you are recommended to visit once a week for 6 sessions. Sometimes people experience immediate relief, and only one or two treatments are required. It is important to remember that the aim of Chinese Medicine is to treat the root cause, so in some cases treatment may be required over several months.

DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?

Acupuncture needles are nothing like an injection. They are much thinner and usually cause no pain. The sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache, which can sometimes be strong as it reaches the acupuncture point but quickly disappears. Some people love the buzz of it because they know something is happening. Many people feel deeply relaxed during treatment and often fall asleep.

WHAT ABOUT THE NEEDLES USED?

Members use single-use, pre-sterilised needles, which are disposed of after each treatment. British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) members adhere to a strict Code of Practice.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

It is quite common after having acupuncture for the first time to feel a little light-headed or tired directly after treatment or later in the day. This is a perfectly normal reaction and nothing to be concerned about. It is uncommon for this to happen after subsequent treatments. Patients are advised not to have acupuncture on an empty stomach. Acupuncture can cause the body to become a little dehydrated so it’s a good idea to drink extra water after treatment. Sometimes a small bruise can appear at a needle site; this will disappear after a few days.

SHOULD I TELL MY DOCTOR?

If you are currently receiving treatment from your doctor it is recommended you tell them that you plan to have acupuncture. Do not stop taking medication. You should tell Anna about any medication and supplements you are taking. Acupuncture works well either as a standalone therapy or in combination with other therapies. Always consult speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

WILL MY INSURANCE COMPANY COVER IT?

That depends upon your insurer. As the demand for complementary medicine increases, more private health insurance companies are offering cover for traditional acupuncture. Contact your provider for more information.

WHAT IS DRY NEEDLING OR ‘MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE’?

Physiotherapists, doctors, chiropractors and osteopaths use these types of needling primarily in the treatment of muscle and joint pain. A trained medical practitioner using ‘Dry needling’ is taught over a 2-5 day course. A trained acupuncturist uses acupuncture to treat a wide range of conditions including but not restricted to pain relief. An acupuncturist trains in the use and theory of Chinese Medicine for 3-4 years. They use acupuncture all day, every day – not as an add-on or adjunct therapy to try when other things aren’t working.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

That's OK, feel free to get in touch. Email or call me on 0777 166 4246 anna@annatownendacupuncture.com