Frequently Asked Questions
Essential information about your first appointment?
Sessions are about an hour long. In compliance with data protection, you will be asked to complete a short form proving the clinic with basic information about yourself, your medical condition and agreeing to receive treatment.
You may be required to undress to your underwear (depending on your condition) but your modesty will be protected at all times.
You may continue to go about your normal day before and after your treatment.
Do you treat patients with severe or chronic health problems?
Sometimes treatment is more about managing symptoms than curing the disease. However, the aim may be to improve the quality of life of a patient. It is usually safe to use acupuncture for patients with severe health problems.
People with chronic health problems sometimes find they benefit from having treatment only when their symptoms become too much for them. Other find that having regular but more spaced out treatments work best. As it is really difficult to generalise on individual health concerns so it is best to get in contact to discuss your health matters.
What can acupuncture do for you?
Acupuncture can help restore your body’s equilibrium, alleviate physical, emotional and mental stresses. Treatment focuses on the person and the relationship of the symptoms and not just their illness. Acupuncture treatment once a month is a great way to maintain health as you age.
Who can have acupuncture?
Acupuncture is for everyone and can treat many different health issues as well as help maintain health and well-being.
Help, I'm scared of needles!
It's very common to have a fear of needles so please don't feel embarrassed. I treat many patients who don't like needles and they usually return! I am very gentle and always put the patient first. I find it is best to go at a pace that suits the patient so they always remain in control of how the treatment goes. By providing as much or as little information as the patient feels they need, most people find the they overcome their worries.
Are there any side-affects?
Acupuncture is very safe and has very few side-effects which are generally occasional and minor. The main side-effect is bruising which can occur around the needling location. The more chronic the health condition, the more easily bruises occur, however, they do clear up with a few days.
Light headedness can occur for a short time after treatment. This usually only happens if you have not had acupuncture before or it has been a long time since your last treatment. It is important to eat before receiving treatment.
Sometimes patients may have other symptoms that they may feel are related to their treatment but usually this is not the case. If you have any concerns it is best to contact me to discuss your case.
Who can use Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM)?
Generally, CHM can be used by most people and dosage would be adjusted to suit the person’s age, constitution and health condition. Caution is used when treating children, those on medication and pregnant women.
Is CHM safe?
When prescribed by a trained professional and sourced from a reputable supplier, CHM is safe. However, adverse reactions can occur as can happen in any form of medicine. Any adverse reactions should be reported to your practitioner regardless of the treatment type.
For more information, please visit the RCHM – Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine, UK website
How can I be sure of your credentials?
I am a full member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and am fully insured. The BAcC are the main accrediting body for acupuncture in the UK. Being a BAcC member indicates that I am properly trained and vetted, am bound by the BAcC code of safe practice and am engaged in Continuous Professional Development to keep my skills up to date. As a member of the BAcC, I am also on the Professional Standards Agency accredited register which allows NHS professionals can refer patients to me.
Can I use my health insurance?
The quick answer is sometimes! As there are so many different insurers and even more different types of insurance it is difficult to say whether you will be covered. You will need to check with your policy holder. Some fully cover the cost, while others pay a proportion of the cost or pay for a fixed amount of treatments. Either way I can provide invoices, receipts and any other documentation your insurer requests. You need to pay for your treatment then recoup the money back from your insurer.
Can’t find the answer to your question? Contact me!