Frequently Asked Questions

 
 
 

What is traditional Chinese medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world's oldest existing medical systems. It is an unique and independent medical system that originated in China. It has developed and improved over centuries and is imbued with the spirit of Chinese civilisation and culture. For thousands of years, TCM has played a major role in maintaining the health of Chinese people.

TCM has thrived over centuries because it is highly effective. Today, it is embraced internationally due to its proven effectiveness and it is now the largest drug-free healthcare therapy in the world.

Traditional Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes of the human body and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as on the treatment. Imbalances in the body can result from disease pathogens, injuries, stress, overwork, poor diet, weather and environmental conditions, and other lifestyle factors. We look carefully for these signs of health and dysfunction, paying particular attention not only to the present signs and symptoms, but also to the medical history, general constitution, and the pulse and the tongue. 

Chinese medicine regards each patient as having a unique pattern of signs and symptoms that constitute a clearly identifiable syndrome or "pattern of imbalance". It seeks to find and treat the root cause of imbalance and not just to alleviate the symptoms.

 
 

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works through stimulating the body's healing responses or immune system. Acupoints lie on lines or channels in the body and are stimulated by the insertion of fine, single-use sterile needles at various locations. The actions of each point, and combination of points, and their effectiveness in treating diseases, has been studied and learnt through clinical practice for many centuries. In recent years, many of these actions have been scientifically refined and verified by modern research methods. The point of acupuncture is to unblock energy and restore normal function. 

The number and frequency of treatments required will vary according to the patient and the condition being treated, while effectiveness is dependent on the tailoring of treatment and patient compliance.

Because Chinese Medicine evolved well before recent scientific research methods were established, there is a misconception that it is unscientific. However, much research currently exists establishing the effectiveness of both the acupuncture and herbal strands of Chinese medicine.

 
 

Is acupuncture painful?

You can feel the needle, but it is not painful. Some people experience a tingling or dull sensation around the needle and most find it a deeply relaxing experience. 

 
 

What is Chinese herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal therapy involves the use of natural substances, with the vast majority of them from botanical sources. Each has its own specific characteristics and particular medical use to treat diseases and restore the body to its healthy physiological state. 

Chinese herbal medicine must only be prescribed by qualified TCM practitioners. We conduct a diagnostic interview, which includes asking questions relating to your health problems, taking your pulse and examining your tongue, before making a prescription.

 
 

Does Chinese herbal medicine have any side effects?

Generally speaking, Chinese medicine is very safe compared with pharmaceutical medicine. It is illegal in the UK to use harmful substances in Chinese herbal medicine. Here, we ensure that the herbal medicine prescribed to you is safe so you have complete peace of mind. 

 
 

So what are its strengths?

As a natural form of healing, acupuncture has the following benefits:

  • provides drug-free pain relief

  • effectively treats a wide range of acute and chronic ailments

  • treats the underlying cause of disease and illness as well as the symptoms

  • provides an holistic approach to the treatment of disease and illness, linking body, mind and emotions

  • assists in the prevention against disease and illness as well as the maintenance of general well-being

 
 

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Many ailments can be helped by acupuncture and TCM; theoretically it is a complete system of medicine but there are of course times when western medical intervention will be needed. The list below shows conditions commonly helped by acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. 

Internal
Asthma, Bronchitis, Migraine, MS & ME, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Hepatitis, Obesity, Hypertension, Palpitations, Thyroids disorders, Cystitis

Pain Management
Arthritis, Neuralgia, Back Pain, Sciatica, Sports Injuries (such as sprained ankles and knees, torn ligaments and bruises etc. ), Cerebral Palsy, Stroke

Energy and Emotional Problems
Stress, Anxiety, Insomnia, Depression, Fatigue, Panic Attacks

Dermatological
Acne, Herpes, Dermatitis, Psoriasis, Eczema

Gynaecological
Infertility, Heavy or Irregular Periods, Menopause, Miscarriage, Endometriosis, Morning Sickness, Herpes, Premenstrual Tension

Addictions
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs

 
 

How much does it cost?

Price List
Initial Consultation £20.00
Acupuncture £35.00 - £45.00
Acupuncture + Tuina £45.00 - £60.00
Cupping £30.00
Herbal Capsules £10.00 / 1 week
Herbal Powder £50.00 / 100g

Please note: We offer academic rates and elderly rates for patients over 65 years of age. 

Vouchers are available in-clinic - ideal gift for friends and family.