Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) works according to a completely different philosophy and system than Western medicine. The basic theories and practice of TCM were laid down over two thousand years ago - though of course they were developed and refined over subsequent centuries.TCM always thinks about health in terms of two universal energies known as Yin and Yang and also the flow of Qi, often translated as life force or vital energy. Qi flows through a series of channels also called meridians beneath the skin, and it can be accessed and influenced at specific acupuncture points along the meridians. In our bodies if Yin and Yang are balanced and working in harmony, and our Qi remains strong and flows freely throughout the body, then our organs will work in harmony and we remain healthy. However, if our Qi is weak and our organs are not balanced and working in harmony then disease and illness can and do enter.

The first time you come for acupuncture treatment an in-depth consultation will be undertaken. You will be asked a lot of questions about your lifestyle, health, medical history and current symptoms, this is because TCM takes an holistic approach to health. By asking these questions it is possible to develop a comprehensive picture of the illness and identify the things in your life that have caused your condition to develop. A diagnosis is carried out which is the foundation of your treatment plan and forms the basis of subsequent treatments.

Acupuncture by nature is a simple, safe and effective therapy that involves the insertion of thin, solid, single use sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on the body. The needles may be left in place for up to 30 minutes.

Some patients experience immediate improvement after treatment, others can take longer to notice changes and a number of treatments may be required to create an effect which eventually becomes noticeable. Each patient’s health improves in different ways therefore your progression will be continually monitored. Alongside a change in symptoms, patients almost always experience an increased feeling of well-being, indicating that changes in health are arising from deep within.

At First Point Acupuncture associated techniques may also be combined to complement your acupuncture treatment and further promote the healing response.

Auricular Acupuncture, which involves the insertion of very small needles into points on the ear. Alternatively small seeds attached to a piece of tape are positioned and left in place in order to continue the effect of the treatment.

Electro-acupuncture, where a small hand-held machine is used to transmit a gentle electrical current through the needle to increase the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment, particularly when there is a lot of pain.

Cupping, a type of deep tissue massage which involves placing suction cups on the body creating a vacuum that pulls the skin, tissue and muscles upward. The treatment increases circulation and oxygen delivery and helps relieve pain and muscle soreness.

Moxibustion, a form of heat therapy, involving the burning of the herb mugwort close to the skin’s surface to relieve cold, stagnant and painful conditions such as arthritis.

Tui na therapy, a therapeutic massage using pressure with movement along meridians and on acupuncture points to promote Qi flow and provide relaxation to sore and tense muscles and tendons.

Acupuncture treatment - £40
Please note the first consultation includes taking your case history therefore the duration of this treatment is around 1 1/2 hours, the duration of subsequent treatments is 1 hour.

Please make sure you have a light snack before acupuncture treatment.

Payment Terms
Payment by cash or card (no cheques please) at the time of treatment, alternatively you can pay via bank transfer prior to the appointment. Should you wish to pay this way, please request the bank details upon booking.

Cancellation Policy
I understand it is not always possible to keep an appointment. Please give at least 24 hours notice if you are unable to make an appointment. Please call 07709 508949