What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture consists of the insertion of very fine pre-sterilised needles into specific points on the bodies surface in order to affect the body’s process and restore the individual to health. The needles are disposable and used only once on any one person.
Is there anything in the needles?
The needles are solid, stainless steel needles. Meaning they are not hollow like a hypodermic syringe but are solid through out. There is nothing in the needles themselves.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by affecting the body’s Qi. Qi means “Vital Energy”. I prefer to think of it as the body’s process. The means by which everything is working in order to keep us alive and healthy. From ancient times it has been seen that a manipulation of certain points, of which there are hundreds on the body, affects the person’s Qi in specific ways, specific to the point being used. On diagnosing the person the Qualified practitioner of TCM is then able to write a prescription of acupuncture points in order to treat the person.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is very safe in the hands of a qualified practitioner of TCM. It is probably one of the safest modalities of treatment that one can receive because it is homeostatic. What this means is that there can be no adverse effect. As a means of treatment it is also the quickest as well as safest with often times results being evident before the person leaves the clinic.
Are there any side effects?
Apart from some sensation as the needle activates the Qi of the body, none. Very rarely one may have a small bruise.
Who can be treated using Acupuncture?
Everybody regardless of age or gender. I have treated new born babies as well as very elderly people with acupuncture. I have treated people who were unconscious, people who were dying, as well as pregnant women in all stages of pregnancy and used acupuncture to aid in delivery. There is no bar as to who can avail of acupuncture.
Does it hurt?
The short answer is, no! There is a sensation of the Qi moving in the channel initially but this is not painful generally. Even the most anxious can be put at ease in the hands of a professional.
