Spring back to Health...

Practioner : Dr Fraser Russell

How does Acupuncture Work.?

It still isn't fully known how acupuncture works, but it undoubtedly helps the body's own self-regulating mechanisms correct any imbalances that may cause symptoms. Acupuncture increases, or stimulates, the body's production of natural painkillers endorphins, and balances other chemical messengers (neuro-transmitters) within the nervous system. It also works through centres in the brain to modify the way pain signals are received. In addition, we know that acupuncture acts on the body's 'autonomic', or automatic, nervous system that controls the normal functioning of our organs. But there are still many phenomena associated with acupuncture and its ability to enhance healing that have so far defied explanation.

Although traditional Chinese methods have dominated acupuncture till recently, newer approaches have now been developed outside China that can sometimes simplify treatment, and often enhance the results of pure Chinese acupuncture.

Acupuncture will never replace Western Medicine, though it is being used increasingly alongside conventional medicine by orthodox doctors. It provides a powerful complementary therapy without the side-effects of today's drugs, and more in harmony with the body's own healing processes.

• "When it does succeed the relief it gives is almost instantaneous, generally permanent, and often in cases which for weeks or months have run the gauntlet of other treatments without benefit" - Mr T Pridgin Teale, Surgeon to Leeds General Infirmary (Lancet, 1871).

• "At the Leeds Infirmary the use of it is almost traditional. It was there that I saw it employed, practised it myself and witnessed the remarkable benefits frequently resulting" Mr S Snell, Ophthalmic Surgeon to Sheffield General Hospital (Medical Times & Gazette, 1880).

• "For lumbago, acupuncture is, in acute cases, the most effective treatment...In many instances the relief of pain is immediate" - Sir William Osler, Professor of Medicine (in his renowned textbook, 'The Principles and Practice of Medicine', 1909).

Working with  Acupuncture.?

What will happen.?

Acupuncture uses very fine needles at strategic sites called acupuncture points. Generally 6-8 points are used at a time. The needles are usually left in for 10-15 minutes, but sometimes for longer. Sometimes the needles are warmed with a herbal preparation called moxa, and the needles can also be gently stimulated using a small electrical current that gives a tingling or buzzing sensation Some people worry that acupuncture will hurt, but with such fine needles, it is rarely a distressing experience.

How will I feel during and after treatment.?

Usually a feeling of calm relaxation is felt during acupuncture treatment, and this may persist for several hours afterwards. Very occasionally some people feel quite sleepy, and, although you should be fine to travel home afterwards, if you are in any doubt about how you may react, you might like to bring someone with you on your first visit.

Does acupuncture always work.?

Acupuncture works in many conditions, though some respond better than others. There is also a spectrum of people's response to acupuncture, from the strongest 'mega-reactor' to very weak responders, who are, effectively, 'non-reactors'. You don't have to 'believe' in acupuncture; vets use it very successfully on animals, and it even works if given during a general anaesthetic! About 80% of patients derive benefit, with about two thirds helped more than just a little.

How quickly does it work.?

People often feel relief from their symptoms after their first session. This relief will usually be short-lived initially (a few hours to a few days only), but the relief should become progressively longer and more effective as the therapy continues. Occasionally, in some 'strong reactors', acupuncture causes the symptoms to actually get worse for several days, though if this happens the relief that follows is often even more effective and longer lasting than usual.

How many treatments will I need.?

There is no set number of treatments. Usually treatments are given once or twice a week though more spaced out as the condition responds. Sometimes the effects are dramatic and you may need only one or two treatments, but sometimes the effects are subtle and you may need treatment for several months. There should, however, be some significant change after five or six treatments.

How long does the benefit of acupuncture last.?

The improvement may be permanent, though sometimes an occasional booster may be necessary. In conditions such as osteoarthritis, for example, a booster every three to six months or so often proves helpful.

Are there any risks of infection with acupuncture.?

Using single-use, disposable needles, under an approved Code of Practice, there is no risk of infection, and people treated by registered practitioners are now able to donate blood.  

For further information or to book an appointment contact reception or Email :

 acupuncture@oakspring.co.uk

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