Acupuncture – a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - has been a major part of primary healthcare in China for the last 5,000 years and is one of the most ancient arts of healing. It is used extensively for a variety of medical purposes ranging from the prevention and treatment of disease, to relieving pain and anesthetizing patients for surgery.

Acupuncture literally means 'needle piercing,’ the practice of inserting very fine needles into the skin to stimulate specific anatomic points in the body (called acupoints). The acupoints are stimulated to correct imbalance in the movement of Qi in the body and to restore health and vitality.

The therapeutic effects of Acupuncture are based on the Chinese concept of “Qi” - life’s energy or vital force. When you’re healthy, Qi energy circulates within the body through specific channels or meridians and is made up of two components, yin and yang, which are opposite but complementary forces. Disruption of the balance of yin and yang is thought to produce illness through the energy imbalance and affects the functioning of internal organs and body systems.

The successful use of Acupuncture has been documented extensively in China and modern science has established that the insertion of these needles elicits the production of various chemicals, which in turn contribute to a healing process. Acupuncture is a widely accepted form of treatment by orthodox and non-orthodox health practitioners. It has been recognised and endorsed by the World Health Organisation as a valid and useful treatment for over 100 conditions. These include:

• Colds and influenza
• Tonsillitis and ear infections
• Asthma
• Allergies and hay fever
• Pain relief – particularly affecting the back and neck
• Musculoskeletal conditions such as tennis elbow or frozen shoulder
• Arthritis
• Migraine and headaches
• Anxiety and depression
• Digestive disorders such as indigestion and irritable bowel
• Hormonal and menstrual problems
• Nervous system disorders such as trigeminal neuralgia and facial palsy.

Very fine needles are inserted from just below the skin to varying depths. Because they are so fine, pain is not usually experienced. However, different sensations may be felt; most commonly a slight burning or stinging. Even young children usually tolerate Acupuncture very well.

Along with the usual method of puncturing the skin with the fine needles, therapists also use heat, pressure, friction, suction, or impulses of electromagnetic energy to stimulate the points.

Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, a session in Acupuncture will often include other complimentary therapies such as Herbal or Nutritional Medicine to support the healing process. You don’t have to be ill to benefit from Acupuncture; many people use it as part of an overall program to help maintain their energy levels and optimal health.