Frequently asked questions

Many people look to acupuncture to help relieve specific conditions, especially pain conditions such as migraines, tension headaches, back or neck pain, or osteoarthritis of the knee. Whatever your particular problem, acupuncture works to treat the whole body and not just your symptoms, and you may also notice other niggling complaints also get better with a course of treatment. In fact, some people choose acupuncture when they feel their bodily functions are out of balance, perhaps with no obvious reason or clear medical diagnosis. Once tried, many people have regular ‘tune-up’ treatments because they find it so beneficial and relaxing, so it can be very helpful for regular de-stressing.

In almost all circumstances, acupuncture can also be given alongside other therapies and / or medication.

For the most up-to-date research and evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture for specific conditions, please visit the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or Evidence Based Acupuncture websites.

Most patients find acupuncture treatments to be relaxing. Acupuncture needles are so fine that many people don’t even feel them being inserted, however it is also normal to feel a mild tingle or slightly aching sensation that disappears after a few moments. Occasionally, you may feel a mild electric shock sensation when the acupuncturist wants to activate a specific point. When you visit us for the first time we’re happy to answer any questions you have regarding your acupuncture treatment.

The first time you visit us our aim is to get to know you a bit better and understand what’s troubling you. To assist in making a well-informed diagnosis we’ll discuss your medical history, covering every aspect of your health and lifestyle, and carry out some diagnostic techniques like taking your pulse, looking at your tongue, and feeling certain areas on your legs, arms and stomach. We’ll also explore what you want to get out of acupuncture and whether you have any specific health goals in mind. All this information will be assessed and a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. More info on your first treatment can be found here.

The number of acupuncture sessions needed varies from patient to patient and the symptoms being treated. As a guide, your acupuncturist will normally ask to see you once or twice a week at the beginning in order to track progress closely and adapt the treatments as needed. You may start to feel benefits after the first or second treatment although long-standing and chronic conditions usually need more time to improve. Rest assured that you will be given a good indication of how may sessions you may need at your initial appointment and a jointly agree a review date will be included in your treatment plan. Once your health has stabilised you may need ‘tune-up’ treatments on a regular basis. Traditional acupuncture is also very effective when used as preventive healthcare and many people like to go for a ‘tune-up’ treatments every month or at the change of each season throughout the year.

Acupuncture is very safe with few side effects. Although rare, the most likely side effect is minor bruising at the site of needling or cupping, however these are no cause for alarm and will clear of their own accord. If you do have any concerns your acupuncturist will be very happy to discuss them with you.

Dom Walsh a member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAaC), which is the main governing body for acupuncturists in the UK. As a member he abides by a strict code of ethics and safe practice. The hygiene procedures followed by members of the BAaC are approved by the Department of Health and currently include new measures for safe practice in regard to Covid-19.

Acupuncture can be really beneficial for a wide variety of conditions. It is often used as a preventative treatment as well as curative, to maintain and regulate balance within the body, strengthening your constitution and immune system. Your acupuncturist will consider all aspects of your wellbeing and treat according to your symptoms and the various diagnostic techniques which help us to deliver a treatment plan specifically tailored for you.

There are many types of acupuncture, and it can be difficult for a patient to understand where best to seek treatment. However, Dom is a fully certified member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and therefore adheres to their strict code of conduct and safe practice. In this context, you can be sure that you are in the best possible care.

It would be helpful if you wore loose fitting clothing so it’s easier to access acupuncture points on the arms, legs and stomach or back. It’s also best to avoid eating a large meal, or drinking coffee or alcohol, within an hour of your appointment. Apart from that please come exactly as you are!

You are likely to leave your session with a sense of relaxation, however that won’t affect your ability to go back to work if you need to. We do recommend you keep heavy exercise to a minimum so as to give the treatment a chance to work its effect.