What Can Acupuncture Help With?

People seek acupuncture support for a wide range of health concerns, as well as for general well-being and health maintenance. Charlotte has a particular interest in fertility, women’s health and pregnancy support, whilst also treating a broad range of general health concerns including pain, stress, sleep difficulties, fatigue and digestive symptoms.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Traditional acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), often described as the body’s vital energy. According to traditional East Asian medicine health is supported by the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, and symptoms may arise when this flow becomes disrupted.

Modern research has explored a number of ways in which acupuncture may influence the body, including effects on the nervous system, circulation and pain processing. While research continues to develop, many people choose acupuncture as part of their approach to supporting their health and wellbeing.

Will It Hurt?

Most people find acupuncture to be a comfortable and relaxing experience. The needles used are very fine, much thinner than those used for injections. You may feel a mild tingling, heaviness, warmth or dull ache around the needle, but these sensations are usually brief. Most people find sessions deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for clients to fall asleep during a session.

What Happens During Appointments?

The first appointment includes a detailed consultation and treatment. The majority of this first session will be spent talking (about two thirds, with a third treatment time – this then switches in future sessions to a third of the time spent talking, and two thirds treatment time). We will discuss your current symptoms, general health, medical history, medications, lifestyle and any relevant investigations or previous treatments. 

This information helps me to build a detailed picture of your health and develop an individual treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

 Follow up appointments will last for approximately one hour and will focus on reviewing progress, discussing changes since your last visit and continuing treatment.

Please CLICK HERE for current appointment fees.

What Am I Likely To Feel Afterwards?

People respond to acupuncture in different ways. Some people feel relaxed, calm or sleepy after treatment, while others feel energised and refreshed.

Occasionally people may feel temporarily tired or lightheaded following treatment. If this happens, resting, eating and staying hydrated is usually helpful.

How Can I Prepare For A Session?

It is advisable to eat a light meal or snack before your appointment and to stay well hydrated.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing where possible, as this can make treatment easier and more comfortable.

Following treatment, many people benefit from allowing themselves a little time to rest and avoiding physical exertion where practical.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions required varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the nature of the concern, and how long it has been present and your overall health. 

Fertility treatment often requires a longer term approach. This is because improvements in egg and sperm quality over several months, and treatment may focus on supporting menstrual health, overall wellbeing and reproductive health alongside any fertility specific goals.

Recommendations will always be discussed with you and reviewed throughout treatment.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture has a very strong safety record when carried out by a properly trained practitioner. 

All needles used are sterile, single-use needles that are disposed of safely on removal. As a member of the British Acupuncture Council, Charlotte follows strict standards of professional practice, hygiene and continuing professional development.

Can Acupuncture Be Used Alongside Conventional Medical Care?

Many people choose to use acupuncture alongside conventional medical care. If you are receiving treatment from your GP, consultant or another healthcare professional, it is important to continue following their advice and treatment recommendations. 

Please let Charlotte know about any medical conditions, medications or treatments you are receiving.

Can I Keep Taking My Medication?

Yes. Please continue taking any prescribed medication unless advised otherwise by the healthcare professional who prescribed it.

Am I Covered By My Insurance?

Some insurance providers offer cover for acupuncture treatment carried out by a member of the British Acupuncture Council. Please click here for the full list and check directly with your provider whether your policy includes acupuncture. Insured clients are asked to pay for their appointments at the time of treatment and will can then submit their receipt to their insurer to reclaim any eligible costs. Receipts can be provided on request.