Traditional acupuncture is just one part of an ancient health care system that includes Chinese herbs, cupping, moxibustion, diet, exercise and massage. Originating from China and based on ancient principles, it has been continually developed and refined for centuries. It has a long history of adapting to the culture in which it is practised, making it suitable for today’s health problems which are often generated by our modern, urban lifestyle.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, health is dependent on the body’s vital energy - which is known as Qi - moving smoothly through the body in a network of “channels”. When Qi is blocked or depleted, the system becomes unbalanced and this can result in symptoms of pain and illness. Emotional and physical stress, poor diet, lack of appropriate exercise, injury or infection are possible causes for this. Traditional acupuncture along with advice on improving lifestyle factors can, in certain circumstances, be used to help restore balance and promote physical and emotional well-being.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi. It is aimed at the root of the condition and works on the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Please contact me if you would like to discuss a particular issue. For more detailed information about acupuncture and current research into its effectiveness please visit the British Acupuncture Council or the World Health Organisation.