Acupuncture           

Q. Does Acupuncture hurt?
A.  No. A pinch ,a tingling feeling  or a dull ache is usually felt. When people think of needles, they usually think of injections given in a hospital or at a GP's surgery. Acupuncture needles are different, they are very fine and not hollow.  No pharmaceutical drugs or any other substances are injected into the body. Acupuncture needles are kept in sterile packaging  and are single use only.

People who are afraid of needles are always surprised at how little they feel them when inserted. 

Q. What training have you had?

A. Lisa and Mir have both trained in a 3 year degree level Acupuncture course.  This training followed by hands-on training in Hangzhou TCM Hospital in China, lead to membership of The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC). 

Both Lisa and Mir  update their skills regularly by attending courses in advanced and supplementary medical techniques, Mir has also undertaken additional training in Daoist classical acupuncture.  Both have also undertaken a one year Patent Herbal Medicine course and Mir will complete his training in full Herbal Medicine (where he will be able to prescribe bespoke formulae) in 2011.

When trying to find an Acupuncturist, it is always advisable to seek a practitioner who is registered with the BAcC.

"Members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) have completed a thorough training of at least three years in traditional acupuncture and bio medical sciences appropriate to the practice of acupuncture. They carry the letters MBAcC after their name. The BAcC maintains common standards of education, ethics, discipline and practice to ensure the health and safety of the public at all times. Members are covered by Medical Malpractice and Public/ Products Liability insurance.

The BAcC currently has more than 2,800 members whose details are published in an annual Register of Practitioner Members. A copy of the full Register can be obtained by sending a cheque for £5.00 to the office, or the BAcC office can post or fax to you a list of your local practitioner members free of charge. Simply telephone, write or e-mail giving your name and address (including full postcode). "  - Source: BAcC website

Q. How many treatments will I need?

A. This varies according to the presenting complaint.  During the first consultation  the practitioner will discuss the number of treatments required.  It is usually suggested that it takes 6 approximately treatments to have an affect.

Q. Can I take prescription medicine at the same time?

A. Yes. Having acupuncture treatment does not mean that you automatically have to stop taking prescribed medicine from your GP. It helps the practitioner to know which prescribed drugs you are taking and how long you have been taking them for. This will further help them in their diagnosis and treatment plan.
Some patients visit acupuncturists because they want an alternative to taking prescription drugs and some because of the side effects that drugs may produce. It is always advised that withdrawal from medication is always discussed with your GP before any decisions to do so.


Q. How long is a treatment?

A. The first session is usually the longest; approximately 90 minutes.  The consultation (which includes taking a detailed medical history) is carried out at this time.  Sessions there afterwards usually last between 45-60 minutes.

Q. Do I keep my clothes on?

A. The patient will need to dress down appropriately. Patients do not have to be naked during treatment. Undressing to expose areas for treatment such as shoulders or knees would be necessary to treat those areas.


Q. Should I do anything before or after the treatment?

A. If possible, try not to drink coffee or have a large meal, as this may alter diagnosis. Smoking before treatment can also affect tongue diagnosis. After the treatment some people may feel tired or drowsy. Having a short rest before driving would be advisable if you are feeling light headed.

Q. Can I give blood after acupuncture treatments?

A. There has to be a six month gap between your last acupuncture treatment and the date of giving blood.

Q. What is the difference between them?

A.  Tui Na is usually carried out over clothing.  It is a strong and stimulating type of massage and best suits those who prefer deep tissue massage and people who have chronic (long standing) musculoskeletal problems & injuries.  It is perfect for active sports people too.

       Swedish massage will relax muscles, increase circulation and invigorate the nervous system.  It is not as strong as Tui Na and is carried out on the skin

       Aromatherapy is a gentle therapy using a blend of essential oils to help relieve and eliminate health problems.  It is excellent for combating stress and anxiety symptoms. 

Q. Are they safe?

A.  Yes.  All of the pre-prepared herbal formulae ('patents')  used are bought from wholesalers in the UK.  All patents are GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) approved, which is a standard originally established for the U.S. manufacture of pharmaceutical drugs.  This standard is used by herbal and pharmaceutical manufacturers in Europe, Australia  and Asia.