Acupuncture is a system of healing which has been practised in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. Although often described as a means of pain relief, it is in fact used to treat people with a range of illnesses where function is impaired. Its focus is on improving the overall well-being of the patient, rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms.

Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of conditions including arthritis, anxiety states, asthma, fibromyalsia, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, menstural and menopausal problems, M.E., pain relief for back problems, back sciatica, sinuses, skin conditions. .

Following an initial consultation your acupuncturist will determine the most appropriate course of treatment. There are around 500 recognised acupuncture points on the body, 100 of which are most commonly used.

Very fine needles are then either inserted for a second or two, or left in place for up to 20 minutes, depending on the effect required. When the needle is inserted the sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache.