Traditional Chinese Medicine & Five Element Acupuncture
About Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a healthcare system based on ancient principles that go back thousands of years.
The underlying principle of treatment is that illness and pain occur when the body's Qi or energy cannot flow freely. There may be many reasons for this, emotional or physical stress, poor nutrition, infection or injury are the most common.
The overall aim of acupuncture treatment therefore, is to restore the body and mind to a natural balance by re-establishing the free flow of Qi and trigger the body's natural healing response.
Treatments
A number of therapies may be used to complement your acupuncture treatment
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body.
Depending on the type of treatment, needles are inserted momentarily, or left in for about 20 minutes. You will rarely feel them going in, but you may feel a dull ache, mild tingling, or a gentle pulling sensation once they are in place. These sensations wear off quite quickly leaving you in a state of relaxation.
Cupping
Cupping is used to move Qi and Blood in muscles and joints in order to improve circulation and remove any stagnation that could be causing pain. Suction cups are applied to the area and can be left in place or moved with the use of massage oil.
Electro-Acupuncture
A form of acupuncture whereby a small electrical current is passed between two needles for analgesic effect. Electroacupuncture (EA) is used to disrupt nerve signals to reduce pain. It also increases Qi and Blood flow in order to boost circulation and remove stagnation stimulating the healing properties of the body, bringing relief to stiff joints and tight muscles.
Moxa
Moxa is a dried herb (mugwort) which is used in Chinese Medicine for therapeutic effect. It can be applied directly or near the skin to boost circulation, warm acupuncture points before needling, or to warm sore joints and muscles where heat brings relief.
Moxa can also be used for digestive, menstrual and fertility issues.
Guasha
Guasha is a traditional practice whereby a Jade or Rose Quartz tool is used to provide even strokes over the skin to increase blood flow, decrease inflammation, relieve muscle tension and boost the immune system.
What to expect
Treatment begins with a consultation where we will discuss your symptoms, sleep, energy levels, diet and any issues of concern you may have.
A pulse and tongue diagnosis is then carried out giving an indication of any internal imbalances or disharmony that may be causing your symptoms and affecting your health. We have our own thoughts and feelings and digest information and even food in our own way which affects the way we feel. As such, your treatment plan will be tailored individually to you.
A course of at least 6 weekly treatments is highly recommended. You may notice an improvement after one or two treatments; however, acupuncture has a cumulative effect so it is a good idea to stay the course. Once all symptoms are under control, treatments can be spaced out and eventually a top up is all is needed as and when required. Fertility treatment usually requires a longer timeframe, it may take 3 months to regulate and improve the menstrual cycle.