What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a system of healing which has developed in China over thousands of years. Although often described as a means of pain relief, it is in fact used to treat people with a wide range of illnesses. Its focus is on improving the overall well-being of the patient, allowing the recovery of a natural equilibrium between the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual.

Many people come to acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or conditions. These might include anxiety states, arthritis, asthma, back pain, circulatory problems, depression, fibrositis, high blood pressure, indeterminate aches and pains, migraines, rheumatism, sciatica, skin conditions or ulcers. It is also helpful for people trying to overcome addictions such as those related to smoking, alcohol, food or drugs.

Some people may have acupuncture as a preventive measure to strengthen their constitution, or because they feel unwell in themselves without being 'ill' in the Western sense. The benefits of acupuncture frequently include more than just relief from a particular condition. Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels, better appetite and sleep, as well as an enhanced sense of well-being.

Is it Safe?

All members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) observe a Code of Practice which lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation for needles and other equipment

I only use disposable needles. These are pre-sterilised, are in sealed packs and are carefully disposed of after each treatment.

Patients who have been treated by a BAcC member are eligible to donate blood through the National Blood Service

Acupuncture table and chart

According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy - known as Qi - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of meridians (channels) beneath the skin. Qi consists of equal and opposite qualities - Yin and Yang - and when these become unbalanced, illness may result. By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body's own healing response and help restore its natural balance. The flow of Qi can be disturbed by a number of factors. These include emotional states such as anxiety, stress, anger, fear or grief, poor nutrition, weather conditions, hereditary factors, infections, poisons and trauma.

For more information, see the About Acupuncture section at the British Acupuncture Council website

Member

	Does it Hurt?
	Acupuncture is not generally painful. Acupuncture needles are very fine and most people are surprised at how little they feel as a needle is inserted. Once in place, it is common to feel a tingling, heavy or warm sensation at the acupuncture point.

See the page on what a treatment is like

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Tony Greenhalgh BA (Hons) DipAc PGDip D.N. MBAcC
Hillcrest House, May Hill, Ramsey, Isle of Man, IM8 2HG, UK

Phone: 01624 817839

Please could you let me know that you have looked at my web site when you contact me. Thank you.

Page last updated 21 Sep 2005

What is Acupuncture?

Is it Safe?

Does it Hurt?