Acupuncture is one of the four pillars of Chinese Medicine, dating back at least 2,500 years. The other pillars include herbal medicine, movement therapy like qigong, and massage.
It is a holistic medical practice that can treat various illnesses and symptoms as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with Western medicine. Acupuncture takes a deep, individualised approach to treatment, focusing on understanding each patient. The goal is to address the root cause of a condition and its symptoms, promoting long-term health rather than providing short-term fixes.
Many patients initially seek acupuncture to address a specific complaint. Still, over time, it often becomes an integral part of their preventative healthcare routine. Acupuncture is as effective in preventing illness as it is in treating it.
Common Conditions Treated with Acupuncture at Surrey Holistic:
- Musculoskeletal Issues (Back pain, sciatica, hip pain, knee pain, etc.)
- Fertility Support (Natural conception, IVF support, pregnancy care)
- Women’s Health (Including gynaecological conditions and menopause)
- Chronic and Complex Pain (Across all spectrums)
- Mental Health and Neurodiversity (Stress, anxiety, depression)
- Cancer Support (Both symptom management and cancer survivorship)
- Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS, Coeliac Disease, Ulcerative collitis, and more)
- Neurological Conditions (Like Headaches, Migraines, Parkinsons and more)
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the understanding that the body’s health is connected to the balance of Qi and blood. Tiny needles are inserted into specific points along the body’s meridians, or channels, to restore balance and homeostasis.
This process works on physical, mental, and emotional levels, providing a natural way for the body to heal itself and restore internal balance.
Safety and Side Effects
Acupuncture is a very safe treatment with minimal side effects. Occasionally, there may be slight soreness or bruising at the needle site, but this is rare. Sometimes, patients may experience mild dizziness or fatigue after a session—often indicating that the body is undergoing a positive shift.
What to Expect in Your First Acupuncture Session
A typical acupuncture session involves the following steps:
- Initial Consultation – The practitioner will assess your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to tailor the treatment. This in-depth discussion, typically lasting around 45 minutes, may include pulse diagnosis and tongue examination.
- Needle Insertion – Thin, sterile needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points (most of which don’t hurt). Most practitioners use between 5 to 10 needles per treatment.
- Resting Period – The needles remain in place for 15-30 minutes while the patient relaxes.
- Post-Treatment Advice – The practitioner may offer lifestyle and dietary recommendations to enhance the treatment’s benefits.
Most patients require multiple sessions to see significant improvements, especially for chronic conditions.
Finding the Right Practitioner
It’s essential to choose a well-trained acupuncturist who resonates with you. At Surrey Holistic, our practitioners are highly qualified, and we encourage you to explore their profiles. If you have any questions, schedule a free consultation with one of our practitioners.