All about acupuncture

Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,500 years ago and is part of a wider system of traditional medicine. This holistic approach also includes nutrition, movement practices such as qi gong and tai chi, massage and herbal remedies, all working together to support good health and wellbeing.

During an acupuncture treatment, fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to help influence the flow of blood and qi (pronounced “chee”), and support the body’s natural healing processes.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), qi is a type of energy or life force. 

Blood and qi flow through the body along specific pathways called meridians. When qui becomes blocked or unbalanced, symptoms including pain, illness or emotional distress can develop.

Disruptions in the meridians may be caused by many factors, such as:

• lifestyle habits like overwork, poor diet or a lack of exercise

• injury

• stress

• common illnesses like colds or flu

Inserting fine needles at certain points on the meridians helps to unblock qi and rebalance the body. Your acupuncturist will decide where to place the needles to achieve the best result.

Acupuncture can be used to support a wide range of physical and emotional health concerns. Some of the most common conditions I treat include:

• back pain and sciatica

• sports or activity related injuries

• anxiety and depression

• tension headaches and migraine

• fertility support 

• hormonal issues such as PMT and menopause 

• allergies including asthma and hay fever

• IBS and constipation

• urinary health issues

• sleep disorders like insomnia

In the UK, acupuncture is integrated into NHS care and guidelines now recommend it for several conditions such as chronic pain, headaches, migraines and prostate problems.

Acupuncture aims to treat the underlying cause of your health concern, rather than individual symptoms, to help restore balance and wellbeing.  

Modern research now shows acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, triggering the body to releases neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin. These pain-relieving chemical messengers then help reduce tension and promote relaxation, allowing the body to heal.

Many people find acupuncture deeply relaxing and notice their health improving over time, particularly with regular treatments.

It’s safe to have acupuncture during pregnancy – it can also help relieve a range of common symptoms, including:

• nausea and morning sickness

• digestive issues

• joint or back pain

• fatigue

Treatment can be adapted to meet your needs throughout your pregnancy.

Acupuncture can also provide valuable support after childbirth, helping with:

• recovery from labour and birth

• breastfeeding support

• scar healing

• postnatal depression or anxiety

• fatigue and sleep issues

• joint and muscle pain

These postnatal treatments are gentle and restorative, and can support your overall wellbeing.

If you’ve been feeling out of balance or dealing with ongoing symptoms and cannot find relief with conventional treatment, acupuncture could help. 

I will take the time to do a full medical history, ask relevant questions to understand what’s going on, and create a personalised treatment plan to support your health and help you to feel your best.