Five Elements Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a system of healing that has been practiced for over 2,500 years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, good health is dependent on qi flowing freely through the body along pathways called meridians; when qi is blocked or imbalanced symptoms of pain, illness or emotional disruption may occur. 

Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile, single use fine needles at specific points on the meridians to connect with the body’s qi and trigger the natural healing response.

It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as the needle is adjusted. Acupuncture needles are so fine (similar to human hair) that many people don’t feel them being inserted.

Sometimes mild bruising can occur where the needle was inserted, and occasionally you may feel dizzy or tired after treatment. Things like making sure to eat a light meal before treatment and drinking enough fluids can help minimise this.

For more information please visit The British Acupuncture Council.

The initial consultation is usually approximately 90 minutes. I will begin by asking you about your reason for seeking treatment, noting down a comprehensive medical history and learning more about aspects of your general health including your sleep, digestion, menstrual cycle (if relevant) etc. This is then followed by a physical examination which includes palpation, checking temperature regulation and Chinese pulse diagnosis.

I will then devise a personalised treatment plan based upon the information gathered - often involving a prescription of weekly sessions to begin with.

As treatment plans are individual, the duration of treatments advised and the frequency will depend on different factors such as how long symptoms have been present. The benefits of acupuncture are accumulative - therefore a minimum of four weekly treatments is advised to begin with.

Treatment can also be used as a preventative, to prevent flare-ups of chronic conditions and also as a maintenance - i.e. promoting relaxation and general wellbeing .

Sometimes mild bruising can occur where the needle was inserted, and occasionally you may feel dizzy or tired after treatment. For more information please visit The British Acupuncture Council website.

Please have a light meal a couple of hours before your treatment and ensure you are well-hydrated. Please also avoid wearing heavy make-up or perfumes.

Acupuncture is non-invasive and generally safe to use alongside other medical treatments. It can help reduce side effects of therapies, such as cancer treatment, and improve overall well-being. Widely recognised in hospitals and clinics, acupuncture works alongside prescribed medications. If you are unsure, it’s best to check with your doctor before starting treatment, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with me when booking.

Treatment can be carried out safely during pregnancy, helping to ease symptoms like morning sickness, nausea, and tiredness, while also supporting the mental, emotional, and physical preparation for childbirth. Studies indicate that starting labour-focused care from 37 weeks may help reduce the duration of delivery. After 40 weeks, acupuncture may be used to encourage labour to begin naturally, and it can also promote overall recovery and well-being after birth.