What to expect

At your first appointment, I’ll take a full medical history and ask a series of questions about your health and lifestyle. After that, you can relax on the treatment couch while I take your pulses—an integral part of diagnosis—and examine your tongue. The number of needles used will depend on the issue being treated.

The needles typically remain in place for about 20 minutes. During this time, you’ll be able to rest while I continue to monitor your pulse. I may also use moxa—a traditional Chinese herb—during the treatment, depending on your condition.

The initial session lasts approximately 75 minutes to allow time for a comprehensive health assessment. At follow-up sessions, I’ll ask about any progress or changes since your last visit. These treatments typically last between 45 to 60 minutes.

A person giving a massage on another person's arm.

 FAQs

  • Acupuncture shouldn't be painful— I want you to feel relaxed throughout the treatment. The needles I use are extremely fine, about the width of a human hair. You may feel a sensation when the needle is inserted—often described as a dull ache, tingling, or a slight heaviness. This is a normal and desired response.

    Some areas, such as the hands and feet where the skin is thinner, can be more sensitive. If you're concerned about discomfort or have a fear of needles, I can adapt the treatment using finer facial needles or apply moxa (a warming Chinese herb) directly to acupuncture points instead.

  • The number of treatments you’ll need depends on the condition you’re coming for and how long you’ve had it. Chronic or long-standing issues often require more sessions than acute or recent problems.

    As a general guide, I usually recommend weekly treatments for 3 to 4 weeks, after which we’ll review your progress and adjust the treatment plan if needed.

    Everyone responds differently, and we’ll work together to find the right approach for you.

  • Acupuncture is safe to receive during pregnancy and can help ease a range of common symptoms, including:

    • Nausea and morning sickness

    • Digestive issues

    • Joint or back pain

    • Fatigue

    Treatments are tailored to each stage of pregnancy, supporting your overall wellbeing and helping you feel more comfortable throughout your pregnancy.

    Postnatal Support

    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

    • Musculoskeletal pain

    These treatments are gentle, restorative, and adapted to meet your needs during this important time.

  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is helpful but not essential. Only the areas I need to treat—most often the lower legs, feet, and forearms—will need to be uncovered.

    I always use towels or blankets to ensure you stay covered, warm, and comfortable throughout your treatment.

  • Following an acupuncture session, it's best to take it easy and support your body’s natural healing process. Here are a few simple guidelines:

    • Rest and relax as much as possible

    • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

    • Avoid strenuous exercise or overly demanding activities for the rest of the day

    You may feel deeply relaxed or sleepy, while others feel refreshed and energised—both are normal responses.

    In some cases, there may be a temporary worsening of symptoms before improvement. This is sometimes referred to as a healing response and can be a sign that your body is starting to rebalance itself.