Acupuncture is one of a spectrum of treatments offered by Chinese Medicine. It is a holistic therapy that can be used to regulate the various internal systems of the body, to relieve pain and to prevent disease.

It originated in China over 3000 years ago and has been accepted internationally due to its effectiveness in treating disease and the signs and symptoms of disease.  It is now the largest and most popular drug-free healthcare therapy in the world.  It is compatible with and can be used alongside Western Medicine.

How It Works

Acupuncture works at a local level improving blood circulation and tissue repair; and throughout the body by stimulation of the nerves. Patients very often experience an increased sense of well-being, greater energy and a reduction in pain levels soon after their first treatment.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points on the body. These points are located on “channels” or “meridians” along which “Qi” flows. Qi is the “life force” of the body and if it’s flow is obstructed in any way the result is a feeling of dis-ease or discomfort in the body, the mind or the emotions.

The acupuncture points have specific functions and are carefully selected by the Practitioner in order to disperse any blockages and to bring Qi into better balance. By insertion and manipulation of the needles in the acupuncture points, Qi balance can be restored and maintained.

Studies have shown that acupuncture benefits the immune system and results in the release of endorphins, which are a group of naturally occurring hormones, secreted within the brain and nervous system.  The physiological function of the endorphins is to activate the body’s opiate receptors.  The opiate receptors have a pain relieving effect on the body.

Some people experience a tingling or dull sensation around the needle, while most find an acupuncture treatment a deeply relaxing experience.

What it can alleviate

Acupuncture can effectively treat a large range of different signs and symptoms that manifest in the body, mind or spirit.  Any treatment strategy will also pay particular attention to and treat the underlying cause of the disease.  Many factors impact on a person’s health including their emotional state, their environment, lifestyle, diet and whether or not they feel connected to their life.   These conditions may be acute or chronic and are experienced in a unique and different way by each individual.

It is also worth knowing that Acupuncture is very effective in the PREVENTION of disease. Good health and well-being can be maintained by regular treatment with Acupuncture.

The following is a list of symptoms that can be successfully treated:

Neurological disorders – headaches, migraines, insomnia, nervous tension peripheral neuropathy, tinnitus, dizziness.

Cardiovascular disorders – high blood pressure, low blood pressure, palpitations, cold/swollen hands/feet, muscle cramps, fluid retention.

Respiratory disorders – asthma, wheeze, bronchitis, shortness of breath, common cold, influenza, sore throat, rhinitis, sinusitis.

Gastro-Intestinal disorders – nausea, heartburn, indigestion, vomiting, colitis, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, gastric and duodenal ulcers, hiatus hernia, hemorrhoids, weight control.

Genito-Urinary disorders – urinary tract, bladder and kidney infections.

Muscular-Skeletal disorders – muscle and joint pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, lumbago, lower back pain, gout, neck and shoulder pain, frozen shoulder, tennis and golfer’s elbow.

Skin disorders – eczema, psoriasis, rashes, shingles, fungal infections.

Eye disorders – conjunctivitis, retinitis, itchy/watery eyes.

Gynaecological disorders – pre-menstrual tension, painful, heavy or irregular periods, absence of periods, abnormal uterine bleeding or discharge, disorders associated with menopause, prolapse, morning sickness, infertility.

Sports Injuries – sprains, cartilage problems, torn muscles/ligaments, bruising.

Psychological disorders – stress, mild depression, anxiety, nervousness, low mood, emotional disturbances, smoking, alcohol and drug addictions.