What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help With?
There is an overwhelming body of research that has been reviewed by the Australian department of Veteran Affairs and the American department of Veteran Affairs and most recently by John McDonald and Stephen Janz (the authors of the Acupuncture Evidence Project). These reviews have shown that for 117 conditions – acupuncture is considered to be effective. (AAC-org.uk)
Some of the conditions that acupuncture may be able to support patients with are listed below. It is also important to recognise that Chinese Medicine is a Complementary Alternative Medicine, and can be safely used alongside conventional medicine and pharmaceuticals.
If you would like further information, the British Acupuncture Council has a helpful evidence-based factsheet that provides a summary of research related to specific conditions and how acupuncture may be helpful- this can be found HERE
Musculoskeletal Injuries/Pain
Back pain, sciatica, tennis elbow, neck pain/ restriction, knee pain, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, achilles rupture, muscular strains and sprains, shoulder pain etc.
A variety of treatment methods can be used to address either chronic or acute conditions that range from causing mild discomfort to severe pain and restriction of movement. A full assessment of the patient is carried out so that the most appropriate treatment modality can be selected (cupping, gua-sha, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, massage therapy, or a combination)
Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
Supporting all areas of mental health including anxiety, stress, depression and bipolar disorders as well as helping people to process significant life events, grief and shock.
Headaches
All types of head pain, including visual disturbances, migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, chronic headaches and dizziness.
Cancer Support
Acupuncture can be used safely alongside conventional medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to support the mind and body whenever possible and provide relief from associated side effects such as nausea and pain as well as essential emotional support.
Fertility
Supporting men and women through all aspects of trying to conceive naturally and offering women tailor-made acupuncture programmes to support them emotionally through the various stages of IVF and optimise the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy by supporting the body energetically.
Digestive Issues
Management of gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal bloating, pain, IBS, IBD, Crohn's, Colitits, chronic constipation and reflux issues.
Women's Health
Painful periods, heavy bleeding or lack of bleeding, irregular cycles, PMT, UTIs and cystitis, uterine prolapse, incontinence and bladder sensitivity, as well as management of issues associated with peri-menopause and menopause.
Allergies and Hayfever
Seasonal allergies, skin sensitivities and irritations, rashes and inflammatory responses to allergens and toxins.
Sleep Disorders/ Insomnia
Help to regulate sleep cycles and reduce episodes of insomnia and restlessness at night. Acupuncture can also benefit those that suffer from sleep disturbances such a night terrors and sleep walking.
Support with Quitting Smoking and Other Addictions
Tailor-made treatment plans to support the mind and body once the decision has been made to stop smoking and help with managing withdrawal symptoms that come from ceasing alcohol or substance/drug abuse.
Chronic Fatigue and Post-Viral Issues
Viral infections such as Influenza, Epstein-Barre, Shingles and Covid can leave many suffering with long term fatigue and loss of energy as well as difficulty concentrating and functioning in day to day life. Acupuncture can be used to strengthen and support the body by expelling lingering pathogens and strengthening the defensive energy (Qi) within the body to relieve symptoms.
Trauma and PTSD
Focusing primarily on using Five-Element acupuncture to move emotional and energetic blocks in order to gently release supressed emotions within the body that cause energetic imbalances as a result of shocks and traumas that can be recent or go as far back as birth and childhood. Acupuncture can help in supporting the individual through the process of recognising and healing from the signs and symptoms that trauma can manifest into.
