acupuncture
We do not currently offer acupuncture or Thai acupressure massage at Aqua Viva Health.
what is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting fine needles into the skin to stimulate specific anatomic points in the body called 'acupoints'. The acupoints are stimulated to balance the movement of energy ('Qi') in the body to restore health.
what are the benefits of acupuncture?
Acupuncture is used to treat a variety of conditions such as:
- Digestive problems (e.g Irritable bowel syndrome)
- Asthma
- Musculoskeletal problems (e.g sciatica, frozen shoulder, sports injuries, back pain, arthritis)
- Neurological conditions
- Smoking Cessation (and other addictions)
- Chronic Pain
- Infertility
- Migraines/Headaches
- Dizziness/Nausea
- Gynaecological problems
- Insomnia
- Depression/Stress
- Skin Conditions
- Menopausal symptoms
- Common cold
what is involved in acupuncture?
Your first consultation may be longer than subsequent sessions. The acupuncturist needs to assess your general state of health in order to identify the underlying patterns of disharmony and give you the most effective treatment.
You will be asked about your current symptoms and what treatment you have received so far, your medical history and that of your close family, your diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. Once enough information has been gathered to determine the likely causes of your problems, the acupuncturist can select the most appropriate treatment.
To discover how the energies are flowing in your body, the acupuncturist is likely to feel your pulses on both wrists, noting their quality, rhythm and strength. The structure, colour and coating of your tongue also give a good guide to your physical health. The aim is to discover which energy channels need adjusting for your specific complaint to improve, and which require treatment to boost your overall energy and vitality.
what does acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to the needles used in injections and blood tests. They are much finer and solid, not hollow. When a needle is inserted, the sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache. Needles may be inserted and immediately removed, or may be left in place for thirty minutes or more, depending on the effect required. During treatment, patients commonly experience a heaviness in the limbs or a pleasant feeling of relaxation. The benefits of acupuncture frequently include more than just relief from a particular condition. Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels, as well as better appetite and sleep, and an enhanced sense of overall wellbeing.
what do I need to do before having acupuncture?
You should try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse. You should also avoid alcohol, and food or drinks which colour your tongue, such as coffee, immediately prior to treatment.
how will I feel after acupuncture?
You may feel rather relaxed and calm. If the treatment has been particularly strong you could feel quite tired or drowsy for a few hours, and you should take this into account if you are planning to drive or use machinery. Occasionally there may be a short-term flare-up of your symptoms as your qi clears and resettles itself.
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