Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a comprehensive system of medicine that has been developed over 5,000 years, the philosophy of which is that a common thread links the body, mind and spirit as an integrated whole. Through observation and experience, this unbroken stream of knowledge continues to develop to this day.

What training do acupuncturists undertake?
Acupuncturists of the classical school of thought undergo four years of full time training in Western and Chinese medicine. The purpose of this is to understand disease and its cause from both perspectives.

How does acupuncture work?
The body is a harmonious interchange of energies and forces, organs and vessels - everything is in motion, constantly changing and being renewed. This perpetual movement of matter and energy is a continuous stream or flow throughout life, and in a subtle way underlies all life. The ancient Chinese were very interested in the "flow" and observed that it is all due to the interplay of two dynamic forces, yin and yang, continually giving rise to each other without there ever being a separation. The flowing of yin and yang is called qi and is sometimes translated as "vital energy". Life is all about the movement of qi and the Chinese observed the patterns in nature and the body very closely to discover its ways. There are certain routes by which qi flows around the body, called meridians. In acupuncture philosophy, when there is an impairment in the flow of qi, dis-ease occurs. By inserting ultra fine needles into precise locations on the body (acupuncture points) the practitioner stimulates the qi, and brings about subtle waves of change that alter the whole pattern of "flow" within the body in the required way. Naturally this can have a very powerful effect and a precise diagnosis will usually only need one or very few needles.

What does acupuncture treat?
In essence, acupuncture treats an endless list of complaints. A few of these include insomnia, stress related and emotional disorders, allergies, respiratory problems, hypertension, headaches, gynaecological complaints (PMS, irregular cycle, discharges, post-natal depression, etc…), muscular problems, arthritis, sciatica, and many more. The thrust of acupuncture is to harmonise the cause of disease, which means that treatment is geared specifically to each unique person.

How many treatments does one undergo?
Treatments vary from person to person, but you will be able to discuss this with your acupuncturist at or before your first treatment. As a guide, you might expect treatments at two-weekly intervals initially, thereafter treatments may be made once a month. After about six treatments it is a good idea to review your situation with your practitioner. Generally, people with long standing ill health require more treatment. Everyone is different and it really depends on your own particular needs. For those who are quite healthy it is a good idea to have a treatment whenever there is a change of season to maintain good health in the next season.

How should I choose an acupuncturist?
At all times it is wise to check that the acupuncturist is a member of a trade organisation/regulatory body that has entry requirements that ensure certain standards are met, that is training and competency to practice. The British Acupuncture Council has been cited in a House of Lords Report as an excellent example of such an organisation. The council can be contacted on 020 87350400 or through their website at www.acupuncture.org.uk.