Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient therapy, originating some 3000 years ago in far eastern countries, particularly China. It is a very individual and holistic treatment, and has its own method of diagnosis. Central to the philosophy of acupuncture is Qi (pronounced 'chee') - our vital life force.
Qi flows around the body through meridians, each one relating to a different internal organ, and all are inter-related, in a never ending circle.

If a disorder arises, it is because of an interruption in this smooth balance.

Yin and Yang are also fundamental to Chinese philosophy and are also related to balance. Yin is quiet, dark and cool, like the moon, while Yang is lively, light and warm, like the sun. Again, both need to be kept in harmony to maintain good health. 

Acupuncture seeks to restore this balance, and can be beneficial for a wide variety of conditions, for example musculoskeletal pain, stress, migraine, digestive disorders, skin complaints, gynaecological problems, and ME, to name a few. The treatment itself consists of inserting very fine, hair-like needles into specific acupuncture points according to the diagnosis.

As it is a very individualistic therapy, there is no one set combination of points for a particular condition, and as a general rule, some 10-12 needles will be used. Often, there is no feeling as the needle is inserted, although a slight pinprick may be felt. All needles are sterile and single use. 

Sometimes only a couple of treatments are necessary, for example in an episode of acute back sprain, however it is often more beneficial to have 5 or so treatments at weekly intervals to gain the best results, particularly for a longer standing problem. Again, individual people's reactions vary.