FAQ

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COME FOR TREATMENT?

For your initial visit I will need to allow enough time to gather information such as:

  1. Your symptom(s), the history and treatment to date.
  2. Your medical and family history.
  3. The behaviour of your various systems, for example, how you sleep, appetite, whether your digestion is good, exercise, medication you may be on.
  4. Your physical condition, for example, blood pressure and pulses.

Each treatment will take approximately one hour, during which, fine needles will be inserted into acupuncture points. These needles are very fine, much finer than those used for injections. In most cases patients only a slight prick as the needle goes through the skin. When the needle reaches an acupuncture point just below the skin, a sensation is felt which some people describe as a slight ache. This only lasts a second or two. Warmth may be placed on the acupuncture point using the technique called moxabustion.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO COME FOR TREATMENT?

Patients usually attend weekly to begin with and then, as you improve, less frequently. The speed of improvement varies from person to person with some people improving greatly after just a few appointments, while others will require more prolonged treatment.

WHAT ABOUT MY DOCTOR?

If you have been seeing your doctor, you may wish to tell him/her that you are coming for acupuncture treatment. For example, if you are on medication (other than drugs which can not be replaced), we would hope to reduce your drug intake and your doctor will need to be involved with any change of medication.

WHAT ABOUT NEEDLE STERILISATION?

All the needles I use are pre-sterilised, disposable, and are used for one treatment only.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS?

The Traditional Acupuncture Council requires members, before joining, to have achieved a comprehensive understanding of the theory of acupuncture and to have demonstrated clinical competence. Members must also have passed examinations in Western medical sciences also.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTICING?

I have been a practicing Acupuncturist since 1990 and in that time I have successfully treated hundreds of patients.