Acupuncture by Michael, Treatments

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM has a history dating back over three thousand years so it offers patients the benefit of a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and practical experience. It truly is 'tried and tested' and the fact that it is still practised in the modern day is a testament to its effectiveness. The training of an acupuncturist in the UK should be at least three years to degree level. In addition to their degree TCM practitioners will accrue years of practical experience. As the old proverb says: "One thousand days to learn ten thousand days to refine" When choosing an acupuncturist choose one with the correct training and practical clinical experience.

NHS acupuncture - the latest research indicates that acupuncture can treat a wide range of health conditions. The NHS uses acupuncture in many general practices and also in the majority of pain clinics and hospices here in the UK. This type of acupuncture is known generally as "medical acupuncture". The practitioner usually has a medical background working as a GP or physiotherapist for example, and will complete their training in acupuncture in a few short weeks or maybe a month.

Whilst beneficial results are possible and it is a worthwhile treatment, it does not have the effectiveness of TCM. This is due to the fact that often these forms of treatment are not holistic and only treat the symptoms in isolation to other factors that may be contributing to the problem. TCM tries to take all aspects of the patient’s lifestyle and general health into account, looking at all factors that may influence the symptoms. The end result is often a far more effective outcome.

Lifestyle Advice

Diet and lifestyle are the foundation of good health in Traditional Chinese Medicine. I will be very happy to discuss Traditional Chinese Medicine lifestyle measures as part of any consultation or treatment because they are so important in improving overall health and in the treatment of specific conditions.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture works by the insertion of very fine needles single use sterile needles into particular points along pathways called Meridians. There are fourteen main Meridians located on the body and their function is to move vital energy called Qi around the body.. Acupuncture manipulates the body's own energy, stimulating it to heal, repair, restore balance and improve well being

Acupuncture is increasingly recognised by Western medical practitioners as a low-risk, effective treatment for a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic back and neck pain, joint problems and acute injuries. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported acupuncture to be more effective than painkillers at reducing pain from these conditions.

Acupuncture can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for the vast majority of people. A small non-painful sensation such as mild tingling or heaviness may be felt as energy moves to the selected point. Many people start to feel better immediately, however the effects of acupuncture accumulate with the number of sessions received

Chronic Fatigue

Anxiety

Depression

Fertility problems (both men and women)

Menopausal symptoms

Digestive disturbance

Increased or decreased appetite

Headaches

Insomnia

Skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne and eczema

Fibromyalgia

And many other medical conditions

Do I need to have a medical condition to benefit from acupuncture?

Absolutely not! Acupuncture works to rebalance the body to a natural state of health and wellbeing. Clients often report they feel more relaxed, centred and generally refreshed and energised as a result of their treatments.

Massage

Clients are always welcome to book in for a relaxing massage treatment without a detailed consultation. Massage is an excellent way to feel rejuvenated and rebalanced and to keep stress and tiredness in check.

I use a Chinese massage technique called Tui Na which gives excellent results in relieving the following conditions:

General tension Lower limb aching

Water retention Sports Injuries

Tiredness/Exhaustion Stress

Muscular back pain Neck and shoulder pain

For more information on the traditional Chinese massage treatment Tui Na, click here.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is the use of heat in combination with the Chinese herb Mugwort to treat a variety of conditions including pain, joint injuries and generalised 'stagnation' in the body. A tiny pack of the herb is heated and either held over the affected area or placed onto acupuncture needles which have already been inserted. In most cases I will advise clients when moxibustion is required in conjunction with their treatment.

Cupping

Cupping is the placement of specially shaped glass cups onto the skin (usually onto the back) to create a slight vacuum. This process stimulates the movement of stagnant tissue fluid and energy reducing pain, improving circulation and movement and in the treatment of cellulite when used on the buttocks and thighs. It is a painless treatment lasting no more than 30 minutes.