INFORMATION

Who has acupuncture?

Many people have acupuncture to relieve specific aches and pains, such as headaches, osteoarthritis and low back pain.

Other people choose acupuncture when their body systems are out of balance, even though they have no obvious diagnosis. Some choose to have regular treatments just because they find it beneficial and relaxing. Pregnant women commonly use acupuncture for support throughout their pregnancy.

How can acupuncture help me?

Acupuncture is beneficial for a wide range of conditions.

Whatever your particular problem, because treatment is designed to affect your whole body and not just your symptoms, you may notice other niggling complaints get better with a course of treatment.

East Coast Acupuncture offers a free 15 minute telephone consultation on how acupuncture may be able to help you.

What will happen when I go for treatment?

As a BAcC acupuncturist a full medical history will be taken, your pulses read and your tongue will be looked at. Your individual treatment plan will be based on your state of health and lifestyle.

Your acupuncturist will decide which combination of points is right for your whole body as well as your symptoms. Sometimes acupuncture needles are inserted for a few seconds, or you may be left to rest for a while before the needles are removed.

Single use sterile needles come in sealed packs that are opened in front of you and are safely disposed of after each treatment.

What do acupuncture needles feel like?

Acupuncture needles are so fine that most people don't feel them being inserted. It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as your acupuncturist adjusts the needle. Many people feel deeply relaxed during treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Weekly sessions are quite usual to begin with, for perhaps five or six treatments, reducing in frequency as your body responds. Your BAcC acupuncturist will suggest how often you should come for treatment.

On your first visit please bring a list of any medications, over the counter drugs, herbs or supplements you are taking. Please arrive ten minutes prior to your appointment time to allow you time to complete the registration form. This allows more time for your consultation and treatment. Loose, comfortable clothing is advised.

Is acupuncture safe?

Definitive surveys in the UK and Germany concluded that when practiced by properly trained qualified traditional acupuncturists such as BAcC members, the risk of serious adverse events from acupuncture is extremely low.

Are there any side effects?

Sometimes a small bruise may appear when a needle is removed. Occasionally, people may feel dizzy or tired for a brief time after treatment. BAcC acupuncturists are trained to recognise serious underlying health conditions and will refer you to your GP if appropriate.

Does the NHS recommend acupuncture?

Acupuncture on the NHS is recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for migraines and headaches, and by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) for chronic pain, including low back pain and knee pain.

Under General Medical Council guidelines, GP's may refer patients to practitioners listed on a Professional Standards Authority (PSA) accredited register. The BAcC is the accredited register for traditional acupuncture. The PSA recommends that the public only see practitioners on an accredited or statutory register, giving you the confidence you need.

Will my health insurance pay for acupuncture?

Some health policies now cover treatment with BAcC registered acupuncturists so check with your insurer.