KATY BRADSHAW ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This stimulates energy flow and promotes healing.
According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, the human body has a network of channels called meridians. These transport energy or Qi throughout the body. Acupuncture aims to balance the flow of Qi in the body by inserting needles at an acupuncture point along meridians.
How does acupuncture work
Traditionally acupuncturists explain its effects in relation to the flow of qi in the body and the balancing of Yin and Yang. This is a framework of health which you might map to the Western concept of homeostasis. The way that we ingest, store and transform qi and the balance and harmony of its flow within the human body is the basis on which acupuncturists practise Chinese medicine. From a Western perspective it has been shown to stimulate nerves, fascia and connective tissue resulting in profound effects on the nervous system including regulation of key areas of the brain.
We are dynamic beings in a dynamic universe, and qi is our way of talking about this.
Is acupuncture safe
All members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) must observe a Code of Practice. This lays down stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation for needles and other equipment. The Department of Health have approved these procedures which provide protection against the transmission of infectious diseases.
is acupuncture painful
I use extremely fine high quality needles and treatment should not be painful. Patients often describe the needling sensation as a dull ache, warmth or a tingling sensation. In general patients report feeling very relaxed during and after treatment. The best option is to try it for yourself!
What is acupuncture used for
Acupuncture is increasingly recognised as a treatment option for a wide range of conditions. There is a huge body of scientific research comparing treatment with sham acupuncture highlighting it’s effectiveness. Consequently many health professionals happily recommend it to their patients. The World Health Organisation recognises acupuncture as a treatment for more than 40 conditions, including allergies, chronic pain and fatigue. A growing number of studies also indicate that it may be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression.
Acupuncture also promotes general health and wellness and is patients often use it preventatively to stay well. It takes a holistic approach that treats the whole person—meaning you’ll feel better as an individual and not just as someone with a specific condition. No matter what symptoms you have, acupuncture can help.
What can I expect from an acupuncture session
Trying something new for the first time can be daunting so it’s good to know what to expect from an acupuncture session. When we meet for the first time I will ask lots of questions to make a complete diagnosis of your main complaint and to get an overall picture of your health. We’ll also talk a little about any emotional experiences that may have contributed to your physical symptoms. This extended appointment is a great opportunity for us to take an in-depth look at your health and join up the dots with everything that’s going on for you.
After our chat I will look at your tongue and feel your pulses before starting your acupuncture treatment.
how long are needles left in
Acupuncture needles are usually left in for about 20 minutes, during which time you can fully relax. Many people find acupuncture treatments to be deeply calming and may even fall asleep during the session. After we’ve done some acupuncture, we’ll go through your treatment plan. I will also recommend lifestyle changes that you will need to make to ensure a quick and successful recovery. We work together on this so that you feel fully supported.
Where do acupuncture needles go
There are over 365 official acupuncture points on the body, about the same on the ear and even more extra and Ahshi (tender trigger) points. Most commonly we needle points on the lower limbs, the back and the torso but where we put them will depend on what you’ve got going on. Your practitioner should let you know where they’re planning to put them. If you have any concerns please do voice them, we can often find a work around.
how many sessions of acupuncture are recommended
The frequency and number of treatments will depend on the severity and complexity of your symptoms and how long you have been experiencing them for. A shorter course of 6 sessions is common for acute conditions. For more chronic or complex conditions you will most likely need to come weekly for a bit longer.
Contact me for a chat about your symptoms and what treatment plan might be suitable for you.
how long before I see results
This depends on what you’ve got going on. You should feel a difference after your first treatment, particularly a reduction in any pain and lower stress levels. People often report sleeping very well the night after their first treatment.
In fact, you should see results after every treatment, but to see a permanent shift in your health you will need to complete a course of treatment.
If you aren’t able to follow your prescribed treatment plan you may find that treatment is not effective or that your symptoms take a lot longer to improve.
After you have completed your treatment plan you should come back once a month for a tune-up to prevent your symptoms from returning. This will also help you to stay in optimum health.
I am a trauma-informed acupuncturist. This means that I understand that our emotions, traumas (big and little), past illnesses and current and past life experiences all contribute to our physical health and well-being.
Katy Bradshaw Acupuncture
An outstanding acupuncture clinic in Brighton founded by Katy Bradshaw in 2011.
Member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC)
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Get in touch with me
Katy Bradshaw Acupuncture
37 Stanmer Park Road
Brighton
BN1 7JL
TEL: 07967316964