Acupuncture
For over 20 years, our clinic of highly trained acupuncturists has been London’s trusted destination for natural, holistic medicine.
What is Acupuncture?
The original theory behind acupuncture treatment is that the healthy functioning of the body is governed by the flow of “qi” (often translated as “energy”) through a system of channels under the skin. When this flow of qi is impaired, illness occurs. The flow of qi can be disrupted in many ways: emotional upset, physical trauma, poor diet, and overwork are all common examples. By inserting fine needles at various points along the channels, the body’s energy flow is opened, restoring balance and resolving illness.
Acupuncture is a powerful, natural way to treat many conditions. This therapy addresses the root cause of the issue and works to bring balance to the entire body, whether that be physically, mentally, or emotionally. In the last several decades Western medicine research has made progress in understanding acupuncture and proven that it can often be an effective healing tool by itself for several conditions. Often we integrate acupuncture into a patient’s current treatment plan for a complete, synergistic approach to healing. We will often work alongside your GP or specialist, and any blood test results, scan reports or consultant opinion can provide helpful information.1
In more recent years, western science has investigated the mechanisms through which acupuncture works. Under MRI, CT and PET scans, changes can be seen in brain and body function. Most explanations involve acupuncture’s impact on the nervous system, neurotransmitter release, blood flow and modulation of the immune system.
There are many types of acupuncture. We practice traditional acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This means all practitioners have undergone a minimum of degree level courses and this is their sole speciality. We work alongside other health professionals and will look at scans, blood test reports etc to provide a truly thorough consultation and treatment. In this way we work as integrated medicine practitioners.
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What we see in the clinic
From fertility issues to menstrual pain, from insomnia to digestive disorders, there are a great number of conditions that acupuncture can support. Our clinic is proud to have a professionally diverse team with a great depth of experience to serve patients of all needs.
We use acupuncture treatments for a wide range of symptoms, including:
What should I expect?
We start with a consultation to review your medical history, evaluate current health needs, and discuss your goals. During this session, your practitioner will look to identify the cause of any problems or imbalances, determine the most appropriate treatment and answer any questions you may have. It is this thorough, holistic approach, treating the patients as an individual that is at the core of acupuncture treatment and allows us to get the best results.
During an acupuncture treatment, your acupuncturist will insert several very fine needles which will be left in position for around 15 minutes.
Will it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, they are typically painless and patients often report a great sense of relaxation during and after the treatment. Some patients report feeling slight pressure as the needle penetrates the skin but that sensation usually fades within a few minutes.
Your practitioner will check in with you to ensure you are feeling comfortable and relaxed. At the clinic we use only the highest quality needles to ensure the best experience.
Does it really work?
The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends acupuncture for over 100 conditions.
Long before its recognition in Western medicine though, acupuncture has been practised for thousands of years to treat many conditions throughout the body. We also see the results in the transformations of our own patients.
Treatment time and results vary from patient to patient but we work closely with you to ensure you are moving forward on your health journey.
How do I prepare for a treatment?
On a first-time visit and consultation, clients should be prepared to share their medical history, which can include bringing any relevant medical results including blood test results and scans. We work as an integrated clinic and want to work alongside any other professionals you have working for you. The more information you provide, the more we can help.
For general acupuncture visits, to get the full benefits of this therapy, try to relax and unplug from the outside world.
Can acupuncture help fertility?
Yes. Our clinic has many practitioners who specialise in fertility support and their patients have experienced great success. We help patients who are looking for help with natural conception or assisted conception and have helped over 10,000 clients since we began. Specialising in this area, many of our clients will be referred from their western fertility clinic
Acupuncture treatments can help both partners by stabilizing the monthly cycle, regulating hormonal imbalances, and improving egg and sperm quality.
For more information about our fertility treatments, visit our fertility support page.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Acupuncture treatments are sometimes covered by insurance. Typically patients will pay for treatment and reclaim the cost through their insurers where we provide receipts and reports as requested. For more information, visit our insurance page.
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Acupuncture and dry needling both involve the insertion of needles into certain parts of the body, however, practitioner training, placement of needles, and uses all differ.
Acupuncture has been practised for thousands of years and is based on the belief that our life’s energy, or qi, is linked to our health. It’s used to treat many conditions throughout the body’s whole system. Practitioners will have studied to for degree level training and provide a comprehensive, holistic view of the body.
Dry needling is a relatively new practice and is solely used to treat pain by stimulating trigger points. Dry needling is most often performed by physical therapists and can be practised with as little as 40 hour training.
Our acupuncturists have trained for many years to fully understand how to use acupuncture to treat patients in the safest and most effective manner.
Experience the power of holistic care
We are excited that you are interested in visiting us at the London Acupuncture Clinic. Please contact us at enquiries@londonacupuncture.co.uk and we will be in touch quickly to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, give us a call on the number below.
We look forward to meeting you.