Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at hello@thewellnesspoint.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
During the first appointment, we will have an indepth discussion about the condition you are coming for help with. I will ask questions that help me understand existing health concerns, and also a detailed medical history.
Part of the TCM diagnostic process is taking the pulse, and also looking at your tongue. it might sound strange, but can provide insight to what is going on internally.
After the consultation, you will lie down on the treatment couch, and receive your first treatment. It is not necessary to get undressed to have acupuncture, but it is recommended to wear comfortable loose clothing to enable me to reach points on the arms or legs.
The length of time of this appointment varies, depending on the presenting condition, but I allow 60-75 minutes.
It is advised to have a light snack beforehand.
It's not uncommon to feel a little anxious about needles, but do be reassured they are really fine - nothing like those used to donate blood or have an injection.
In most instances, you will not be aware of them at all - perhaps something at insertion, but then nothing. Sometimes people report a slight tingling, dull ache or a sense of "fullness" at the site, and this is an indication that the Qi is flowing!
While the needles are in you are able to close your eyes and relax, and many people have a little nap.
The number of sessions required depends on the condition, its severity, and how your body responds. Acute issues may resolve in a few treatments, while chronic conditions often benefit from a series of sessions over several weeks. I always recommend booking the first 4 sessions in, and we can reveiw as we go along.
When carried out by a fully qualified and accredited practitioner, acupuncture is a very safe and gentle therapy. I am a registered member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT), ensuring the highest standards of professional practice and patient safety.
I use only single-use, sterile needles that meet strict UK health and safety regulations. Most clients find acupuncture to be a deeply relaxing experience, with minimal side effects such as slight bruising or mild soreness at the needle sites. It’s a natural and effective approach, ideal for those seeking an alternative to medication or more invasive treatments.
In addition to acupuncture needles, your treatment may also include other traditional techniques such as gentle massage, fire cupping, gua sha (a form of therapeutic scraping), and moxibustion (the warming of specific points using a herb called mugwort).
These methods are used to support circulation, relieve tension, and enhance the overall effectiveness of your treatment. Each session is tailored to your individual needs, and I’ll always explain any technique beforehand so you feel comfortable and informed.
If you would like to explore Acupuncture for your child (+11 years) I will ask for a parent or guardian to book a discovery call with me. During that conversation we will go over your concerns, and I can get a bit of background information, and we can discuss a treatment plan.
After the discovery call and before our first appointment, I will send you a document for you and your child to review. This document includes frequently asked questions and treatment information presented in an easy-to-understand format.
During the first session, my goal is to make a diagnosis and begin building rapport with your child. A parent or guardian must be present, as you'll have the necessary information for the medical history. I will explain each step to your child, ensuring they feel safe and informed. If they prefer not to have needles, I will offer no-needle alternatives.
Each session is tailored to meet your child's specific needs, ensuring a balanced treatment and a positive experience.
Yes, many people find acupuncture to be a highly effective treatment for a wide range of physical and emotional health concerns. The NHS recognises that acupuncture can help relieve certain types of pain, including chronic tension-type headaches and migraines, and it is sometimes recommended for other conditions such as joint and muscle pain.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also acknowledges acupuncture as a beneficial treatment for a variety of conditions, based on clinical research. These include lower back pain, sciatica, knee pain, nausea, anxiety, and more.
While individual experiences can vary, there is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture. If you’re curious to explore this further, you can visit the Evidence Based Acupuncture website, https://www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/evidence-summaries/
which offers accessible summaries of the latest research.
I'm always happy to talk through how acupuncture might be able to support your specific health goals.