What will happen at my first appointment?
I will begin by asking you questions about your general health, digestion, sleep patterns and emotions, and for women, information on menstrual cycles. All of this is very relevant to diagnosis and treatment. I may ask you seemingly odd questions, perhaps about cravings, smells, seasons and other preferences your have – these all help build up a full picture of you as an individual alongside Chinese diagnostic techniques.
With your permission, I will also look at your tongue and take your pulse on both wrists.
After this, I will develop your treatment plan. Acupuncture, cupping or moxa may be included with full consent and explanation of all procedures given.
There are over 300 acupuncture points all over the body (albeit only 10 -15 used during a typical treatment!), and in order to access some points, some undressing is common. Every effort is made to maintain your modesty during treatment and towels will be used. I will discuss with you the locations of needles, and if you have any hesitation, I can use an alternative treatment approach which we can agree together. A chaperone is welcome if required.
Please allow 1 1/2 - 2 hours for your first appointment. Subsequent appointments will last 45 minutes to an hour.
What will I feel?
Acupuncture involves inserting very fine sterile needles into defined points on the body, commonly on the hands, feet, arms, legs, head, back and abdomen. The needles are so fine you may not even feel them being inserted.
Acupuncture is not painful. With each needle I am looking to access and move your bodies energy or “qi”. Some sensation is likely – some people feel a deep ache, others a tingling sensation, and often a reaction at the opposite end of your body. This is all totally normal and invited. You are likely to feel relaxed and invigorated.
Needles are frequently left in place for up to thirty minutes, depending upon the effect required.
The needles come sealed in sterile, individual packs and are used once only, then disposed of.
It is extremely useful to make a note of any changes, sensations or feelings you have after acupuncture and bring these to future appointments as this can help me assess the outcomes and how to adapt treatment for you.
Minor bleeding or bruising may occur in a small number of people. All qualified acupuncturists are trained in the correct and safe practice of acupuncture. All members of the BAcC are bound by strict codes of safe practice, ethical and professional conduct and standards of hygiene approved by the Department of Health.
If you are receiving cupping treatment or Gua Sha you will be provided self-care information for after your treatment.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. As long as you are being treated by a practitioner who is a member of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC), you can be sure that your therapist has completed thorough training in Traditional Acupuncture and appropriate Western Medical Sciences. Look for the letters MBAcC after a practitioner’s name. I am MBAcC and have full public indemnity and liability insurance.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of sessions you require will depend on many factors as well as your individual condition, and whether you have an acute or long-standing complaint. You should feel some benefits after the first or second treatment although chronic conditions usually need more time to improve.
What should I do prior to treatment?
Try to eat a light meal an hour or two before coming for your consultation and if possible wear loose comfortable clothing.
Please do not drink alcohol beforehand. Treatment cannot be undertaken if intoxicated or under the influence of recreational drugs.
What should I do after treatment?
Try to drink plenty of water and refrain from vigorous exercise and alcohol for the remainder of the day.
What should I wear?
Wearing loose clothing is preferable, but towels are always provided if an item of clothing needs to be removed for certain treatments (e.g. a back treatment).
What should I bring?
A list of pharmaceutical medicines and supplements you are currently taking.
Any recent medical tests or results if available.
How much does treatment cost?
Initial consultation (approximately 90 minutes) - £70.00
Follow up consultations (approximately 45 – 60 minutes) - £55.00
Bach flower remedies (personally tailored) - £5.00 per tincture bottle
Pricing includes combined techniques such as Moxa, Cupping and Gua Sha.
Naturopathic advice is offered where appropriate.
I have private medical insurance - will it cover the cost of my treatment?
That depends upon your insurance company. For information on which private health insurance companies cover acupuncture please follow this link to the BAcC website.
What do I do if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please allow 24 hours notice. I operate a 24-hour cancellation policy whereby any appointment cancelled within 24 hour of the appointment time full payment is required. This is in fairness to other patients requiring treatment.
Please call 020 8261 7381 to reschedule or cancel your appointment.
Get in touch
I am always happy to discuss any queries you might have and how acupuncture can support your health concerns. Please feel free to call me on 020 8261 7381 or submit the below form.