Frequently asked questions
Are you regulated by any professional body?
Yes, I am an active member of the Acupuncture Society Uk where I have a position on the Regulatory and Disciplinary board covering the UK.
When can I not have acupuncture?
With a pacemaker fitted, during chemotherapy, when you are unable to lie on a therapy bed for any reason, during pregnancy.
What should I not do before my session?
Don’t eat immediately before your appointment.
Please don’t wear perfume, make up or fake tan as it ruins the therapy table and cloths. If you have a cold, flu or virus please cancel until it has cleared. Some clients have compromised immunity and chronic illnesses who need protection from infection.
How long does it take?
The first session includes filling a client consultation from then assessment and treatment whether health diagnosis or physical assessment. Treatment time is generally 40/45 minutes but the first session may be slightly shorter due to consultation.
Can I drive after treatment?
Yes, although I will make sure you are fine to do so. Anyone needing a little time to sit down and have a glass of water will be welcomed to do so.
Can I park nearby?
Yes, there is plenty free parking right at the door. Bus stops in both directions within 50 metres.
Do you do mobile treatments?
Unfortunately no, home clinic visits only.
Does acupuncture hurt?
The occasional needle will cause sensation yes, this is short lived usually in the dermal superficial layer. It can feel uncomfortable briefly when there is a high level of tension with physical issues which acupuncture will be very good at resolving.
What should I wear?
Please wear suitable clothing where possible, we may need to access legs above the knees including feet. Abdominal area to lower ribs and often the whole upper torso/ back. Underwear/ shorts will always be kept on and you will be covered by thin cotton cloths for comfort/ discretion.
I leave the room for anyone removing clothing and putting clothes back on after treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Experience dictates a few days after the first session is the first opportunity to give a realistic and professional opinion, many common physical conditions will improve immediately but the body needs time to resettle afterwards. Many regular customers book in for maintenance sessions after having more chronic conditions resolved, acupuncture, tui na medical massage, cupping and herbal medicine are excellent therapies in combination to maintain good physical and mental health.
Can I have acupuncture while taking medication?
Generally yes, though with heavier blood thinning meds caution will be necessary. With multiple or complex medication lists I will cross check through pharmacology for interactions/ warnings particularly if making herbal medicine prescriptions.
How do I take herbal medicine?
Due to regulations I can only make up prescriptions from processed non animal derived herbal medicine I store here in the home clinic, the herbal medicine I store is purchased from approved and regulated UK suppliers only and given to you as a powdered mixture with which you will make tea by adding hot water in a thermos flask preferably on a daily basis. The prescription will be tailored to your needs and generally
only be suitable for your current condition.