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Acupuncture has been used as a traditional healing practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years.

It has since become popularised in the Western world, and is recognised as a less invasive method of managing pain and improving overall wellbeing.

However, its efficacy and legitimacy as a medical treatment have remained the subject of debate in the UK and other Western countries for many years.

In this article, we’ll be exploring key aspects of the practice to address the benefits of acupuncture, what acupuncture does, and answer the question, is acupuncture real medicine?

Is acupuncture considered a science?

To understand whether or not acupuncture is a science, we must look back at its history.

Acupuncture is rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and is based on the idea that the vital life energy Qi (pronounced ‘Chee’) flows through the body along pathways named meridians.

TCM suggest that by inserting thin needles into specific acupoints along these meridians, practitioners can balance the flow of Qi to promote wellbeing.

Despite its rich and long past, western medicine demands more scientific evidence and validation, which has led critics to argue that acupuncture lacks scientific grounding.

However, those within the world of acupuncture argue that recent advancements and studies provide a solid basis for understanding the benefits of acupuncture.

In a 2017 clinical study, it was concluded acupuncture was an effective for the treatment of chronic pain.

Numerous studies conducted in the past decade have supported this conclusion.

Is acupuncture medically proven?

Over the years, the medical community in the UK and globally has evolved its stance on acupuncture.

In 1979, the World Health Organisation (WHO) first recognised acupuncture as a viable treatment for 43 conditions, including migraines and chronic pain. Since then, it has continued to recommend and support the practice.

Moreover, the NHS has also acknowledged acupuncture’s effectiveness for certain conditions and it is now used in many GP practices, as well as in most pain clinics and hospices.

Currently, the strongest support in the medical community is for acupuncture’s capacity to alleviate chronic pain.

Is acupuncture a placebo or real?

One of the most commonly asked questions about acupuncture is whether its benefits are real or a placebo effect.

Over the years, many acupuncture studies and trials have tested groups with real acupuncture and sham acupuncture to determine whether or not there can be a placebo effect.

These trials have seen mixed results, with some suggesting that acupuncture benefits extend way beyond a placebo effect and that the insertion of the needle does, in fact, trigger a physiological response.

Are acupressure points scientifically proven?

Acupressure is a commonly used technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body.

Although research into acupressure is not as extensive as acupuncture, some studies suggest it can be beneficial, particularly when used in conjunction with acupuncture.

For example, acupressure has demonstrated itself to help reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep.

One 2011 systematic review of 43 studies of acupressure’s effectiveness treating symptoms found that in 35 of the studies, it was concluded that acupressure was effective at treating specific symptoms, including nausea, pain and insomnia.

Get in touch today

We hope that this article has helped you to better understand what acupuncture is and what the benefits of acupuncture are, but if you have any questions or are interested in learning how you could benefit from sessions, feel free to explore our website or get in touch with us today on 0800 051 76 88.

According to the World Health Organization, of the countries that report data to them, acupuncture is used in an incredible 103 out of 129. In the past 50 years, the practice has increased in popularity and is used to help alleviate a wide range of health issues, from chronic pain to mental health struggles. At Acupuncture That Works, we have helped countless patients to experience the unique benefits of acupuncture, but one of the most common questions we are asked is: “Is acupuncture safe?”.  We understand these concerns which is why, in this article, we explore the safety aspects, including the risks, adverse side effects, who should avoid it, and when it might be unsafe.

What are acupuncture’s risks?

When carried out by a trained and qualified practitioner, acupuncture is considered to be a safe and effective method of addressing a number of health issues. According to NCCIH, relatively few complications from acupuncture have ever been reported. However, as with any medical procedure, it carries minor risks, which our practitioners will always make you aware of. The main risks associated with acupuncture include:

Bruised skin or bleeding

Some patients may occasionally experience light bruising or bleeding where the hair-thin needles have been inserted. This is generally harmless and will subside within a few hours after your session.

Infection

Reputable acupuncture clinics will always follow strict hygiene and health and safety protocols to ensure patients are never at risk of infection. However, if you receive acupuncture from an individual who has not correctly sterilised the needles, there will be a minimal risk of infection.

Pain

While most patients can hardly feel the needles, some may find acupuncture slightly uncomfortable, mainly when the needle is first inserted, but this should be temporary.

Feeling faint

One of the rare ‘risks’ associated with acupuncture is feeling faint or dizzy during or after the session. Our practitioners find that those who fear needles, suffer anxiety leading up to the session, or have low blood pressure are generally more at risk of feeling faint.

Are there negative side effects from acupuncture?

We believe the incredible benefits of acupuncture far outweigh the mild and short-lived negative side effects that some patients experience. Often, patients leave feeling rested, more relaxed and rejuvenated after their acupuncture sessions. However, some may experience the following:

Fatigue

Feeling tired following an acupuncture session isn’t uncommon because your body has entered a state of relaxation and healing. We recommend patients stay hydrated and take it easy for the remainder of the day so that the body has time to recover and rebalance.

Soreness

Feeling a slight soreness at the needle insertion site is not uncommon, but this will fade after the session and over the following days.

Feeling worse

In rare cases, we have seen patients’ symptoms worsen briefly but then improve. This can be part of the body’s natural healing process and will not last long.

Who should not have acupuncture?

Acupuncture is generally a safe, non-invasive method of managing a range of health concerns, but we find it may not be suitable for the following individuals:

• People with bleeding disorders
• Pregnant women
• People with pacemakers or heart conditions
• People with metal allergies
• People with certain immune disorders
• People with certain skin conditions

We advise you to always consult your GP and speak to our team about any concerns you may have before receiving acupuncture.

When is acupuncture unsafe?

There is only one instance where we believe acupuncture to be unsafe, and that is when administered by an unqualified individual in unsanitary conditions. We always recommend that you check your practitioner is a licenced healthcare professional or a registered member of a national acupuncture organisation. The British Acupuncture Council is the UK’s leading regulatory body for the practice of traditional acupuncture and allows you to search their online registry for practitioners in your area.

Get in touch today

We hope that this article has helped answer that all-important question “Is acupuncture safe?” but if you have any questions or are interested in learning how you could benefit from sessions, feel free to explore our website or get in touch with us today on 0800 051 76 88.

Millions of people in the UK, and across the globe, receive acupuncture each year to address a wide range of health concerns and ailments.

As this traditional Chinese medical practice has grown in popularity, greater research and a growing number of studies demonstrate how people can benefit.

If you are interested in learning about the benefits of acupuncture, then keep reading.

Here, we’ll delve into everything you must know about acupuncture and explain how you can make it part of your health and wellbeing routine.

 

What is the main benefit of acupuncture?

Acupuncture has several benefits, but its main one is an ability to restore balance and harmony throughout the body.

According to the teachings of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body’s vital energy, ‘qi’, flows through pathways called meridians. When these pathways are blocked, the body becomes imbalanced, and health issues can develop as a result. By using acupuncture to insert hair-thin needles into acupoints, these pathways can be stimulated and cleared to restore qi’s flow.

While many people turn to acupuncture for pain relief, it offers so much more and is used to tackle a range of conditions. They include chronic pain, stress, anxiety, depression, digestive issues, migraines, reproductive health problems and even immune system deficiencies.

By tapping into the body’s natural healing responses, acupuncture can offer a non-invasive and safe way to promote physical and mental health and wellbeing.

 

How long does it take to see the benefits of acupuncture?

Each person responds to treatments differently, and the time frame for experiencing the benefits of acupuncture depends on factors like the condition, its severity and any co-existing health issues.

Some patients experience immediate relief and note improvements after a single session, while others may require multiple sessions to achieve long-lasting results.

Practitioners will tell you that acupuncture is not a quick fix to health issues; instead, it encourages long-term healing within the body.

By regularly attending sessions and following the advice of your practitioners, your body is more likely to adapt and respond quicker to sessions.

What not to do after acupuncture?

Once you’ve had your first acupuncture session, it is important to take steps to not only maximise the benefits but to avoid feeling unwell.

Acupuncture is an incredibly safe practice, but to ensure the best experience, we recommend the following:

Hydrate: Staying hydrated is the key to supporting your body’s natural immune response and will aid in the detoxification process that acupuncture initiates.

Relax: After an acupuncture session, we recommend taking it easy and avoiding strenuous exercise. Giving your body time to rest and recover will aid with the healing process.

No alcohol or caffeine: For 24 hours after your acupuncture session, we recommend avoiding alcohol and caffeine because they can disrupt your body’s balance and counteract the healing process.

Maintain your body temperature: Try to avoid any activities that will rapidly increase or decrease your body’s temperature, like hot or cold baths, saunas, steam rooms or hot tubs, as this can interfere with body reharmonising.

Eat light: Avoid eating foods that are too heavy, or high in sugar, and instead choose nutrient-dense foods that will support the body’s immune response.

Get a good night’s sleep: After a day of resting and relaxing, you should aim to get a good night’s sleep to allow your body time to fully recover.

How often should you get acupuncture?

This is a question we are often asked, and the answer varies from person to person.

The frequency of your acupuncture sessions will depend entirely on your health goals, the condition being treated, and how your body responds to acupuncture.

Those suffering from acute conditions such as a sprain or sudden pain may require more frequent sessions to promote a quicker recovery. Equally, chronic conditions such as stress or long-term pain may require more regular sessions that increase or decrease over time to suit the patient’s needs.

We hope this article has helped you to understand the benefits of acupuncture, and we always recommend working with a qualified acupuncturist who can tailor a treatment plan to address your needs.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of acupuncture and understand how you can make it part of your well-being regime, feel free to visit our website or get in touch with our team today by calling 0800 051 76 88.

According to a survey by the University of York, treatment for infertility by independent acupuncturists was found to have increased five-fold in 10 years. 

Treatment for infertility is just one example of why individuals across the UK seek help from the NHS.

The use of acupuncture, accessed both through the NHS and privately, has increased significantly in recent years, but just how easy is the first route?

In this article, we discuss where acupuncture is available and the ways in which this type of therapy can help with a range of illnesses and physical ailments.

Is it possible to get acupuncture on the NHS?

According to the NHS website, acupuncture is used in some NHS GP Practices across the UK as well as in pain clinics and hospices. However, it also states that access is limited. 

In some instances, individuals may be able to receive acupuncture through the NHS if it is recommended by their doctor or if they are referred to an acupuncture clinic within the system. 

Generally, however, resources are limited, and high demand together with long waiting times for this therapy is likely to restrict the availability of publicly-funded acupuncture. 

What conditions are best treated with acupuncture?

At Acupuncture That Works, we regularly help people with a range of health conditions and concerns by balancing the flow of Qi in the body and promoting healing. 

While individual responses vary, acupuncture has achieved positive results in treating various conditions, including but not limited to:

• Chronic pain: Acupuncture can be effective in managing conditions like back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and migraines.
• Stress and anxiety: Acupuncture has been seen to help individuals feel a sense of calm and relaxation, reduce stress, anxiety and promote emotional wellbeing. 
• Fertility and reproductive challenges: In recent years, acupuncture has gained popularity in helping men and women with fertility treatment, addressing menstrual issues and other reproductive health concerns like endometriosis.
• Insomnia and sleep issues: Acupuncture treatments may improve sleep quality and help individuals experiencing insomnia or sleep disturbances.

Who should not get acupuncture?

While acupuncture is generally safe and one of the less invasive therapies available, there are some situations where it is not advisable. 

Anyone with the following conditions or circumstances should consult with a practitioner before receiving acupuncture: 

• Pregnancy: Acupuncture can be beneficial during pregnancy, and the ATW team regularly assists women struggling with a range of commonly experienced symptoms. However, it is essential to always consult with your acupuncturist to discuss prenatal care and ensure the safety of both mother and child.  
• Immune system disorders: Immunocompromised individuals, or those with certain autoimmune disorders, should always consult their acupuncturist prior to starting sessions. 
• Bleeding disorders: Anyone with a bleeding disorder or taking blood thinners should always communicate this with their acupuncturist. It is important precautions are taken as acupuncture involves using thin needles, which can cause bleeding.

It is important always to disclose your medical history, current medications, and any concerns you may have to your acupuncturist to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.

How long do the benefits of an acupuncture session last for? 

The benefits from an acupuncture session, and their duration, varies according to several factors, including the specific condition being treated, individual response, and the frequency of sessions. 

Many people report experiencing immediate relief or improvement in symptoms after just one session, while others may require multiple sessions to see significant and lasting benefits. 

Most acupuncturists will recommend regular follow-up sessions or treatments to prolong the benefits and address any new concerns.

Ultimately, the lasting benefits of acupuncture will depend on individual circumstances and the nature of the condition being treated. 

Is once a month enough for acupuncture?

The frequency of acupuncture sessions can vary depending on individual needs and the specific issue or condition being addressed. 

While some individuals may benefit from once-a-month treatments, others may require more frequent sessions to achieve the best long-term results.

How much does an acupuncture session cost in the UK?

The cost of an acupuncture session in the UK can vary depending on factors such as location, practitioner experience, and the duration of the session. 

If you are interested in finding out more about the cost of an acupuncture session or have any questions about acupuncture and how it can help to improve your overall wellbeing, feel free get in touch with us today by calling 0800 051 76 88.

Acupuncture and reflexology have both become increasingly popular in recent years as more people turn to alternative therapies to ease health concerns.

Given the two practices are derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), they are often confused.

In this post, we explain what they are, their differences, and how each can help with different ailments.

Continue reading “What is the difference between acupuncture and reflexology?” →