Acupuncture
Restoring balance and vitality
The tradition of acupuncture, deeply rooted in the ancient practices of East Asia and with origins tracing back over 3000 years, is now supported by modern scientific research. In East Asia, it is routinely integrated into healthcare systems and is practiced in many teaching hospitals. Traditional medicine, including acupuncture, is recognised globally, including by the World Health Organization (WHO). Modern studies have confirmed its safety and effectiveness when performed by skilled practitioners, blending ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific validation.
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One of its benefits lies its holistic approach, viewing the mind and body as interconnected, rather than separate entities. The focus is on you as an individual, not just the symptoms, as both are recognised as part of the whole. Using this approach acupuncture not only helps alleviate specific symptoms, but many people also report an overall improvement in well-being and balance.
Much more than just needles.
Your practitioner will discuss all aspects of your health and well-being at your initial consultation. This helps build up an overall understanding of what is going on, how change may be possible, and what you would like to achieve from a course of treatments.
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Working with you in this way helps develop a bespoke plan of how acupuncture, and other related modalities, may support your body’s natural healing response. This in turn helps restore physical and emotional balance for you. Your personalised treatment plan is based on the belief that the body has all it needs to heal given the right environment. With this in mind, your practitioner can also identify lifestyle factors which may not be serving you well, and recommend small changes where required.
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Your practitioner may also suggest, with your consent, additional ways of stimulating acupuncture points by:
Moxibustion – application of warming herbs on or close to acupuncture points.
Cupping – the use of glass suction cups to help release tight musculature.
Reflexology – using acupressure techniques on feet or hands to support the nervous system.
Research evidence
We have a greater understanding than ever before on how acupuncture can influence body systems and our perception of pain. Several mechanisms have been identified, including how it may stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, leading to changes in brain chemistry. In a similar way it may also influence the autonomic nervous system, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
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Extensive research has been conducted to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for various medical conditions. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews, which compile data from multiple studies, offer the highest level of evidence.
For example, a significant Cochrane Review looked at acupuncture for chronic pain conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches. The review found that acupuncture is more effective than sham acupuncture (placebo) and standard treatments in alleviating chronic pain. This suggests that acupuncture may have a real therapeutic effect beyond placebo.
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For more information on current research and evidence-based practice of acupuncture, please visit the independent organisation Evidence Based Acupuncture at Evidence Based Acupuncture or the British Acupuncture Council at Homepage - BAcC
Ready to experience the benefits of acupuncture? Book a consultation today and take the first step towards better health.
Holistic expertise and support for the following conditions:
