Five Element Acupuncture

Who can come for acupuncture?

Almost anyone can come for acupuncture to help with specific symptoms. Some choose acupuncture because they feel generally unwell but have no obvious diagnosis. Others choose it simply to enhance their feeling of wellbeing.

Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages, and can be used effectively alongside most conventional medicines.

What can Five Element Acupuncture do for me?

Five Element Acupuncture comes from an ancient classical Chinese tradition, where the acupuncturist assists nature in supporting the whole person, rather than isolated symptoms. It can have a beneficial effect on a wide range of issues and complaints of both body and mind.

It is important to note that Five Element Acupuncture was not designed to treat conditions in isolation, because treating symptoms without addressing the original cause of the symptoms is ignoring any underlying issues. Instead, it addresses the root cause and can therefore help the whole body and mind, in a subtle but powerful way, experience changes for the better.

If you are interested to see how Five Element Acupuncture has helped my patients, please take a look at testimonials from my patients.

Five Element Acupuncture was orginially designed as preventive medicine.

The old adage:

'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure'

also applies to acupuncture, and many people come for treatment every 3 to 6 weeks, or at the change of season to help rebalance their energies. One of my patients once commented that coming for acupuncture was 'like pushing the reset button to get her life back on track'.

We are all unique individuals, so your treatment plan will be tailored to you and you alone. How you respond to the acupuncture depends on many factors including diet, lifestyle, how you experience life and your work environment, how diligent you are in implementing new, supportive habits and realistic, positive change. Many people return to acupuncture again and again because they find it so beneficial and relaxing.

You can find information on current scientific research into the effectiveness of acupuncture by visiting www.acupuncture.org.uk

What happens when I come for treatment?

The initial consultation and treatment usually lasts about 2 hours, and can on occasion go on for longer (time willing).

This gives you the opportunity to discuss fully the nature of your problems and symptoms in a completely confidential setting, and helps me to build a comprehensive picture of you upon which to base treatment tailored to your individual needs.

During this consultation I will also carry out some simple physical tests before I begin treatment.

Subsequent treatments usually last about 1 hour.

How often will I need to come?

Healing is very much about the individual, so it is impossible to say before treatment how long it will take with any one patient. You may see results after only one treatment or you may experience more gradual improvements.

Treatment is generally weekly for the first few weeks, then less often as you see and feel more improvements in yourself.  

What happens moving forward?

The beginning of each subsequent session will start with a quick catch up regarding any progress you have made and any old or new issues you may be struggling with. I will also check in with you about any other factors such as diet, lifestyle, or on-going issues at home or work to assess whether these are resolving, or maybe contributing to your problems. I will offer support with suggestions such as manageable and realistic changes that you can make to help you move towards your goals, and to help support a return to better physical and mental health and well-being.  

Does it hurt?

The needles that are used for acupuncture are very fine. Any sensation you may feel during insertion of the needle will be due to the connection of the needle with your qi (energy), and this will vary depending on the part of the body that is being treated. The sensation can be different for each person but is quite acceptable and lasts only a second or two.

If it is the needles that are putting you off booking an appointment, take a look at my testimonials to see how the benefits vastly outweigh any momentary sensation. I am used to seeing people who are scared of needles and adapt my approach to find the best way to put you at ease.

Is it Safe?

Yes! The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and British Acupuncture Federation (BAF) lay down strict codes of practice, ethics, safety, hygiene, confidentiality and professional conduct. As a member of the BAcC and BAF, I am bound by these codes and committed to providing the highest standards of care.  

Is there disabled access?

Louise works from a first floor clinic room and the only access is via a standard staircase. Please note there is no lift or stairlift in the building.

Can I claim Private Health Insurance?

Many Private Health Insurance companies provide cover for their customers where the Acupuncturist is a member of the BAcC. Check with your insurer for further details.