Treatments start with a full diagnosis which includes a medical examination and detox treatment. Weekly treatments are then recommended for five weeks depending on the severity of the complaint; however, some conditions can be dealt with in a few treatments. Individual treatment plans are devised for each patient addressing any imbalance. With stress affecting most people the calming energetic nature of acupuncture will alleviate this whilst assisting in relieving symptoms of physical pain or aliments.
TREATMENT
Five Element Acupuncture
Looks at the elemental balance of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. They correspond to the meridian systems of the body where primarily one of these elements will be deficient causing imbalance within our emotional, physical or spirit self. Treatments are individualised and fine single use sterile needles are inserted in the arms, legs, back or torso. The therapeutic effect of this style of acupuncture seeks to right the root (stem) cause of problems and not just treat the symptom (branch). This system has been used for thousands of years and is known to relieve the symptoms of many conditions some of which are listed on the following pages.
Women's Health
Most women these days not only take care of the children and run the home but also work full time. Our health is vital in order to hold together the family home and support those within the household. Acupuncture is a natural yet non-invasive alternative allowing the patient to unwind, let off steam, relax and take time out from their busy schedule. The benefits of acupuncture will relieve symptoms of menstrual anomalies, PMT, peri-menopause, menopause, cystitis, endometriosis, PCOS, migraine/headaches, stress/anxiety/depression, digestive problems, constipation/loose bowels or decreased energy levels. Whatever your complaint may be acupuncture can help facilitate changes enabling you to feel like you again.
Pregnancy
Acupuncture has been well documented for relieving symptoms of the following common complaints during or after pregnancy; morning sickness, breech presentation, PND, stress, labor induction, heartburn, constipation, back pain, sciatica, fatigue, high blood pressure, mastitis, insufficient or excessive lactation and edema. There are other postnatal treatments available like the mother warming treatment which facilitates the contraction of the uterus, nourishing and strengthening the mother. Acupuncture can also help support the mother during the first few tiring months, restoring energy allowing her elementary disposition to shine.
Infertility
Getting pregnant is not as easy as people may think, whilst for most women these days 40 is the new 30 in terms of looks and how we feel our bodies are pre- programmed when it comes to fertility. Statistically there is a 22% chance of conceiving naturally per month which at optimum fertility may increase to 25%. For women ages between 30-40 this can fall to 9% dependant on age/lifestyle etc. If you're planning on a having a family then acupuncture can help to ensure your body is at it's optimum health ... Read More...
Vomiting and Nausea.
This can be linked to a number of conditions like migraine, IBS, celiac disease, pregnancy, vertigo, meniere's disease, motion sickness, emotional stress, cancer treatments etc. However, the cause should always be confirmed by your GP prior to acupuncture treatment. In Chinese medicine it can be caused by rebellious qi which ascends when it should descend towards the stomach. Treatment will ascertain where the weak link is and treatment will concentrate on strengthening and nourishing the individual.
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Hypertension.
The cause of Hypertension is not known in most cases, however, those with a family history, diabetics, certain ethnics groups and those who lead a certain lifestyle are more susceptible. A sustained BP of 140/90 is usually considered by doctors as high, this affects 40% of the UK population. Acupuncture can be used along side medication or to aid lowering blood pressure before medical intervention is needed. However this should always be discussed with your GP. Lifestyle changes may also be suggested which are essential to your continued health. Acupuncture helps with circulation and the free movement of blood improving flow. Stagnation of blood can cause blockages or pain this can be caused through a deficient or excess condition which will be determined at diagnosis.
Adolescent Health.
Adolescence is a trying time as hormones rage and pressures from school/college/university take hold. For many young people exams often take their toll on confidence, energy levels or cognitive processes. Acupuncture can help to relieve these symptoms easing the stress from adolescence to adulthood. It can also be beneficial for treating menstrual issues, skin conditions, asthma, depression or hormone imbalance. Needling isn't always necessary and depends on the age of the patient. Acupuncture can minimise the need for conventional medication allowing the body to balance naturally. Parents are welcome to stay during treatments as full parental consent is required before treatment commencement. Please call for an informal chat or to arrange a face to face meeting.
Skin Conditions / Asthma.
It is estimated that around 300 million people worldwide suffer with asthma, and more suffer with the variety of skin conditions. Having to cope with just one of these conditions can be very debilitating depending on the severity, with mind and spirit suffering as a consequence. Patients who suffer with asthma can often suffer with allergies or skin conditions or all three. Within five element acupuncture they can all be linked to the Metal Element, balancing this element will bring about homeostasis. Although, it is not always as straightforward as that, there will be other factors to consider and treatment progression can depend on a variety of factors. Medication should not be stopped whilst having treatment, but will be carefully monitored.
Insomnia / Sleep disturbance.
Not being able to get to sleep or at least stay asleep for any reasonable length of time can affect most adults at one time in their life. The reason may be due to worry / stress, with thoughts churning round and round your mind as you think about the day ahead. Anxiety can make you fidgety or unsettled, effecting your body's thermostat and taking its toll on our mental state, which invariably effects sleeping patterns. Acupuncture can aid relaxation by stimulating the nervous system to release neurochemicals influencing the homeostatic response in the body. Treatment will center on nourishing and balancing the five elements ensuring the smooth flow of blood and "qi" aiding relaxation and calming your spirit and mind.
IBS / Digestion.
For a long time western medicine thought the cause of this was due to environmental or psychological stress. It is now recognised as a group of symptoms that produce a functional gastrointestinal disorder, causing changes in how the GI tract works. What acupuncture can give patients is a non-invasive treatment option which helps to alleviate the stress and anxiety or even depression associated with IBS. There is evidence to suggest that it provides effective pain relief and regulates the motility of the digestive tract. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system which can stimulate colon spasms; acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system counteracting stress and aiding relaxation. Your diet is a key component and dietary recommendations are available once certain information has been obtained.
Pain Management
The term 'musculoskeletal' encompasses many conditions related to the skeletal system, muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and bursa. Acupuncture can help to relieve the symptoms of these conditions and RCT (randomised control trials) have shown the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of lower back pain, arthritis and migraine. Should you require more information book a FREE consultation... read more...
Childhood Conditions.
All children are precious, and when our children are sick as parents we would move heaven and earth to make them well again. Acupressure or shonishin is used effectively to facilitate the healing process, with needling not required due to superficial buoyancy of a child's energy. Gentle stimulation is applied to specific points individually selected for each child using a spring loaded probe. If you would like to have an informal chat with the practitioner regarding treatment please use the opt in form in the contacts page or call directly.