Q: What should I expect from my first session?

A: We'll go through your case history and chat through what it is you want to achieve. I will take notes and they are kept securely. I can answer any questions about acupuncture. Very occasionally there is so much information to take on that we have to defer the treatment to the following session but this happens rarely.

I work around what you are wearing at my treatments, so there’s no need to remove clothing unless it’s really necessary (ie if you have back pain I will need access to your back). It does make it easier for you to relax if you can wear comfortable and loose clothing but for anyone coming from work it’s possible to work around suits/tights/trousers.

Q: How many sessions will I need?

A: Unfortunately, that's pretty unanswerable. It really depends on what you've come in for and how severe or long-term the symptoms are.  As a rough guide I suggest giving it 4-6 treatments.  If there's no improvement or change in symptoms then I'll suggest alternatives or complementary treatments or I’ll alter my approach and see if that makes a difference. Sometimes further testing is required or seeking guidance from a medical consultant. Some people feel their symptoms are gone after one treatment but I can’t promise that will happen to you.

Q: Will it hurt?

A: Honestly, some points are slightly ‘tweaky’, or sharp, but for less than a second.  Occasionally you might feel a dull ache, which lessens over time, after the needle has been inserted. Mostly you won't feel anything as the needles are so tiny.  I normally use the finest needles you can get and these are much, much finer than the needles you will see at the GP's or in hospital.  They are more like very small pins or hairs.  Once the needles are in you might feel a tingling, aching or itching sensation but many people feel nothing except for being very relaxed.  Occasionally the points bleed a tiny amount when they're taken out and on very rare occasions you might be left with a small bruise*.  None of this is unusual or denotes a problem, and you can always get in touch with me if you're worried about any after-effects.  I see many people who are needle-phobic but cope pretty well.

*Always let me know if you are on blood-thinning medication, have a tendency to bruise, or have a condition which may cause excess bleeding.

Q: What can acupuncture treat?

See here for some of the many conditions.

If you have a question you think should be featured here, please let me know.