FAQs

What does the consultation involve?

I will ask you about your main health concerns, and ask for some general information about your health so I can make an informed diagnosis focusing on your main health issues. I will take your pulse and look at your tongue (these give us diagnostic clues to help inform our diagnosis).
If you are receiving acupuncture I will treat you during the first appointment, if you are receiving herbs, these will arrive to you by post a few days later (everything will be fully explained to you).
I will then tailor a treatment plan to your needs, this may include lifestyle recommendations (such as diet and exercise) to help you get maximum benefit from your treatment.

How long are the treatments?

Treatments are about 50 minutes to 1 hour long

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The overall number of treatments varies greatly between patients. Typically patients will need treatment more frequently at the beginning and as things improve treatments can become slightly less frequent.
Acute issues such as musculoskeletal injury like a strained bad back may require 2 or 3 treatments per week for 2 – 3 weeks to resolve, whereas longstanding chronic problems would normally (but not always) need a longer course of treatment. Acupuncture works cumulatively and best results are seen from a course of regular treatments.
For general health and wellbeing an initial course of a few treatments followed by top up treatments every few months can be very effective to support good health

How should I prepare for acupuncture treatment?

Eat a light meal or snack before the treatment, if possible wear comfortable loose fitting clothes, and do not drink alcohol before your treatment

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is not truly painless, but it is nearly painless. I use ultrafine sterile needles, approximately the width of a human hair. Many patients feel no pain at all.

How will I feel afterwards?

Most patients feel very relaxed after treatment, some feel energised and focused. Some patients feel tired, and if possible it is a good idea to take it easy afterwards.

How long will I need to take herbal medicine for?

You should expect to take herbal medicine for a minimum of 1 month for complex or longstanding health issues. For acute issues such as the flu, it may be more like 1 to 2 weeks.

Are there side effects?

Chinese herbal medicine is very safe. Severe side effects are very rare. Most people do not experience any side effects. Some people can experience some abdominal discomfort initially, this usually resolves as you get used to the herbs, if not I will adjust your formula.

Are acupuncture and herbal medicine safe for children?

Both acupuncture and herbal medicine are considered safe for children.