Traditional Acupuncture is based on a 5000-year-old system of healing practiced in China and other Eastern countries. Its philosophy is different from the Western model of medicine in that it is based on an energy system known as Qi which moves through a series of channels through the body.

When this Qi is disturbed it becomes unbalanced and illness may result. The acupuncture needles along with other techniques (see moxibustion, cupping, chinese massage, ear acupuncture, electro-acupuncture) are a method of restoring the energy balance.

Traditional Acupuncture is a holistic approach that treats the person on all levels. Its principal aim is to restore mental, emotional and physical equilibrium, treating the root cause of disease as well as the symptoms. For example Toyahari acupuncture is a style of Japanese Acupuncture which uses very fine needles ( see link to Wendy and Sarah)

Traditional Acupuncture has evolved over the centuries and as a result there are now many different styles of Traditional Acupuncture.

However in recent years another division of acupuncture has developed in the UK and is used by many other health professionals. This is known as Western Medial Acupuncture and as such is based on scientific principles relating to the nervous system in western medicine. This division of acupuncture uses acupuncture-type techniques using preset point prescriptions for simple localised problems such as tennis elbow, but within this model they do not follow Traditional Acupuncture philosophies.

People use acupuncture for a range of things, both specific and non specific. Some people turn to acupuncture to improve their general sense of well-being, allowing people to feel more positive and relaxed. Others choose choose to have treatment to help maintain good health as a preventative measure.

Below are some of the specific symptom or condition.

• dental pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• pain associated with osteo-arthritis giving temporary relief
• tension headaches

However in 2009 the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence recommended that acupuncture should be made available on the NHS, as a cost effective short term treatment for the management of early, persistent non-specific lower back pain. (see NICE CG88 2009).

You can find more information on current scientific research into the effectiveness of acupuncture by visiting the British Acupuncture Council's website or by speaking to a British Acupuncture Council registered acupuncturist.

What Happens During Treatment?

Fine needles are inserted into particular acupuncture points just beneath the body surface. The points are in very specific locations on specific channels. When the needles are first inserted a sensation like a pin prick may be felt, and then the patient may experience a slight aching, or heavy sensation in the limbs and a feeling of relaxation.

Response to acupuncture varies; and so does the amount of treatment needed from individual to individual. Some change is usually experienced within five treatments. Occasional treatment thereafter is encouraged to maintain good health and well being.

What Are The Professional Qualifications And Codes Of Practice?

All practitioners at the Centre are members of either the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), or the Acupuncture Association for Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP). Members of both organisations follow a code of practice laying down stringent standards of hygiene for all equipment used. This includes needles, which are sterile and are NEVER used more than once.

These procedures are approved by the Department of Health. They ensure protection against infectious diseases.

Where Can I Learn More?

Visit the BAcC website for more information on acupuncture.

Our acupuncturists:-
Sarah Brawn
Wendy Goodman
Jane Morris

To book an appointment with one of our acupuncturists please click here.