Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is acupuncture safe?
A: There have been three surveys in the last six years which have shown that acupuncture is amongst the safest therapies in use in the UK today. Out of 68,000 recorded treatments in two of the 2001 surveys, there were only 14 minor adverse events including minor bruising and nausea. There have been very few reports of serious adverse events, and most adverse effects lasting no more than a few days.

Q: What about the needles used?
A: As a BAcC member, I use single-use pre-sterilised disposable needles, which are disposed of immediately after use. The BAcC Code of Safe Practice, drawn up in consultation with experts in the field of skin piercing, lays down stringent standards which all BAcC members are required to follow. The rules also extend to the hygiene and sterilisation of other equipment.

Q: Will it hurt?
A: The needles used are ultra-fine needles which are designed to be inserted causing as little discomfort to the patient as possible. The most common sensations you will experience are an occasional slight pinch as the needle is inserted, then a dull ache when the Qi is stimulated. This aching sensation is known as ‘DeQi’ and translates as ‘the arrival of Qi’. This sensation is important because it signifies that the acupuncture point is being stimulated successfully.

Q: What should I do before treatment?
A: 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. It is also helpful to wear loose, comfortable clothing for your treatment and you should be aware that I may need access to points on your torso and back as well as on your arms and legs.

Q: What will happen on my first visit?
A: Your first consultation will take an hour and a half in which a full case history will be taken. Due to the holistic nature of acupuncture, all question regarding you lifestyle, diet, medication etc will be asked. These questions help the practitioner to build a custom treatment plan for each individual to maximize treatment effectiveness.

Q: How will I feel after acupuncture?
A: 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 flair-up of your symptoms as your Qi clears and resettles itself.

Q: Should I tell my doctor?
A: If you are receiving treatment from your doctor then it is sensible to mention that you plan to have acupuncture. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication, but you should always consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription. I will need to know about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.

Q: Should I continue with my prescribed medication while undergoing a course of acupuncture treatment?
A: Yes, at least until you have discussed this with your doctor or the practitioner who prescribed the medication. Many people seek the help of an acupuncturist because of dissatisfaction with drug treatment, because it does not seem to be working or because the side effects are unacceptable. DO NOT stop taking any medication without professional guidance.

Q: Why should I go to a BAcC member?
A: BAcC members have an extensive training in acupuncture (to undergraduate degree level) and in biomedical sciences appropriate to the practice of acupuncture in the UK. As well as being covered by full Medical Malpractice and Public/ Products Liability Insurance, BAcC members are bound by codes of professional conduct and safe practice.

Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This varies between patients. Most people have a course of 5-10 treatments and usually notice changes after three to five sessions depending on the condition.