Acupuncture FAQ
What is acupuncture, and how does it work?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that has been used for thousands of years and involves inserting very fine needles into specific points in the body. Acupuncture aims to restore balance and promote the flow of energy (or Qi) throughout the body, which can help alleviate a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Acupuncture can also help to balance the autonomic nervous system, which regulates bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion and respiratory rate. Acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins and serotonin, which helps the body recover from stress and promotes relaxation, leading to healing.
What ailments can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is an effective treatment for a wide variety of health conditions, including mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as digestive complaints such as nausea, vomiting and irritable bowel syndrome. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture can be used to treat a range of conditions, including arthritis, fertility, pain, headache, fibromyalgia, vertigo and more.
What happens in an acupuncture treatment session?
My acupuncture treatment sessions are tailored to each individual's specific symptoms and may involve taking a detailed case history and examining the tongue. Treatment normally lasts about an hour, depending on the condition being treated. Acupuncture treats the whole person and not just their presenting condition in isolation. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) does not see individuals as someone with a particular named condition but rather as a person with a particular imbalance that requires a holistic approach.
How does acupuncture work on a physical level?
Acupuncture stimulates the body's ability to heal by correcting imbalances in a person's energy or Qi. There are 14 major energy-carrying channels in the body called meridians, which are used to identify specific acupuncture points. The placement of the acupuncture needle in the body releases sensory nerves, which trigger the brain to release endorphins and pain receptors. This stimulation also encourages the release of molecules associated with tissue healing and disease resolution.
How does acupuncture work on an energetic level?
In acupuncture, emotions can relate to each organ, and if any of these emotions are extreme in our body, the associated organ's function and energetics will be affected. For example, constant worry and excessive mental work can affect our digestive system, leading to a variety of physical issues such as diarrhoea, weight gain, body weakness, tiredness and reduced mental capacity for thinking, memorising, concentration and emotional stability.
Is acupuncture safe, and are there side effects?
Acupuncture is a safe and established form of therapy that uses minimal intervention and is increasingly being validated by clinical research. Acupuncture needles are single-use and sterile, which means there is no risk of infection and the treatment can be used in conjunction with medication. The needles are very finely engineered and cause little discomfort upon insertion, with the most common sensations being heaviness, warmth, tingling, or electric sensation travelling along a meridian. While temporary bruising may occur, there are generally no side effects and people often feel relaxed during and after treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. For new or acute issues, it may only take a couple of sessions to see an improvement, while chronic conditions may require more time and regular treatments. Once symptoms have improved, occasional treatment may be suggested to maintain health.
How should I prepare for acupuncture treatment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can easily be pulled above the knees and elbows as needles may be inserted in the legs, arms, or abdomen. Alternatively, you may bring shorts and a top with you to change upon arrival.
Does my health insurance cover acupuncture?
If you are a member of the Acupuncture Council of Ireland (ACI) and considering an acupuncture appointment with me, it is important to check your health insurance policy beforehand to determine whether it covers the cost of the treatment. Most health insurance companies partially cover the cost of acupuncture appointments with ACI members, with some plans covering up to 80% of the appointment cost. Upon payment, I will provide you with a receipt which can be used to claim money back from your health insurance provider.
