Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture like? Does it hurt?
No, it doesn’t hurt. In expert hands the needle insertion is painless, sometimes you can feel a slight pinch. When the needle reaches the acupoint and starts to „work”, there is a heavy feeling around it, maybe a hot or radiating feeling, depending on the needle manipulation. During the session you will feel relaxed and the needles will regulate the relevant body functions through the acupoints to aid recovery and help you regain normal balance, so that you can be free of symptoms.
How many treatments do I need?
Acupuncture affects the body functions gradually, so usually 10 treatments are recommended. Depending on the severity of the problem, this can be more. You usually will feel better after the treatments, occasionally more tired, but the more treatments you get the better and healthier you feel. The optimal frequency of sessions is twice or three times a week. In case of severe pain, treatments can be repeated daily.
What are the needles like? Is it safe?
The acupuncture needles are very thin, completely safe and sterile. During a treatment usually 6-12 needles are used, this can vary depending on the problem. We only use disposable needles, so you get new needles for every session.
What is acupuncture good for?
Conditions recommended for acupuncture by the WHO: various neurologic, gastrointestinal and orthopaedic disorders, asthma and some respiratory diseases, eye and mouth problems. The NHS recommends acupuncture for persistent lower back ache. Acupuncture is used in a very wide range of conditions.
How long does a treatment take?
A treatment usually takes approximately 30 minutes. The initial consultation plus the first treatment takes about 1 hour.
What is tuina (Chinese medical massage) like?
Mostly for musculoskeletal and neurological problems, muscle and joint aches, headaches and sport injuries provided the skin is not swollen, red and hot. It can be used either for acute or chronic problems.