Traditional acupuncture is a system of healing that has been practised in the East for thousands of years. Although often described as a means of pain relief it is in fact used to treat people with a wide range of illnesses. Its focus is on improving the overall well being of the patient rather than the treatment of specific symptoms only.

According to traditional Chinese philosophy the body's motivating energy (Qi) moves smoothly through a network of channels beneath the skin. Depending on location and function Qi has got different qualities. These are called Yin and Yang and normally exist as a balance of equal but opposite forces. If they become unbalanced illness may be the result. The flow of Qi can be disturbed by climatic conditions, emotional states, mental patterns, poor nutrition, hereditary factors, infection and trauma.

The acupuncturist aims to stimulate the body's own healing response by inserting fine needles into the skin at specific points on the channels. This in turn can help to restore the person's balance.

People come for acupuncture treatment either for specific conditions or because they appreciate its balancing and relaxing effect i.e. a form of 'check-up' or boost to their well being.

Treatment modalities

Traditional acupuncture utilises various 'tools'. Needles are very fine, come in different sizes and nowadays are single use. However, to achieve different effects to those produced by the needles, for those people who 'don't like needles' and for people who are not suited to their use we use other forms of acupoint stimulation.

Acupressure can be applied by means of a finger or by using a probe. This is the preferred method for small children and sensitive people.

Electrostimulation can be done with or without needles and is a favourite for many who don't want needles.

Moxibustion is burning of the herb Artemisia Vulgaris either on the skin (creating a warming sensation) or on the handle of the needle. It can also be used as a moxa stick which is held near the skin.

Cupping is another traditional method. It means applying suction cups to an area, usually shoulders or back.

Treatment while using prescribed medication

Many people already use prescribed medicines when they come for treatment. I like to know what they take and it rarely is a hindrance to acupuncture treatment. If someone would like to reduce or stop their medication they need to discuss this with the prescribing medical practitioner. Acupuncture can help to achieve this by making the process of 'withdrawal' smoother.

Treating children

Children can often be helped by acupuncture. As mentioned above I usually don't use needles when treating children up to about 12 years of age. They tend to respond well to cupping and pressure techniques. Common problems where acupuncture can help include digestive problems, growing pains, headaches, recurring infections and asthma.

For more information visit also www.acupuncture.org.uk