TCM Acupuncture – Traditional Chinese Medicine

Most people find acupuncture treatment surprisingly comfortable. The needles used are extremely fine, much thinner than injection needles.

You might feel a tiny prick upon insertion, followed by potential sensations like a mild tingling, warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache around the needle site.

This is known as ‘De Qi’ and is considered a positive sign that the treatment is working.

Any discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Our practitioners are skilled at ensuring your comfort throughout the session.

Yes, when performed by a fully qualified and trained practitioner, TCM acupuncture is very safe.

We strictly adhere to safety guidelines, using pre-sterilised, single-use, disposable needles for every treatment to eliminate the risk of infection.

Minor side effects are uncommon but may include slight bruising or pinpoint bleeding at the needle site, or temporary drowsiness post-treatment.

It’s important to inform your practitioner about your full medical history, including pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or if you have a pacemaker, before treatment begins.

Your first appointment will typically last around 60 minutes.

This includes a detailed consultation where we’ll discuss your main health concerns, medical history, lifestyle, and goals for treatment.

This helps us understand the root cause of your issues from a TCM perspective (which may involve looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse).

Afterwards, you’ll relax on a treatment couch while the needles are gently inserted.

You’ll rest with the needles in place for about 20-30 minutes before they are removed.

This varies greatly depending on your individual condition, how long you’ve had it (acute vs. chronic), and how your body responds to treatment.

We will discuss a recommended treatment plan during your initial consultation. Often, a course of 4-6 weekly or fortnightly sessions is suggested initially to see significant benefits, after which we will reassess.

Some people find regular maintenance sessions helpful for ongoing well-being or managing chronic conditions.

Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing is best. Many commonly used acupuncture points are on the arms (below the elbow) and legs (below the knee), so clothing that allows easy access to these areas is helpful.

Depending on your treatment plan, other areas like your back or abdomen might be needed. You will always be kept warm and appropriately covered with towels to ensure your privacy and comfort.

Yes, absolutely. As an integrated practice here at Body Unity, we often find that osteopathy and TCM acupuncture complement each other very well.

Combining these therapies can offer a more comprehensive approach to managing pain, improving function, and enhancing overall health.

Your practitioner can advise on the best way to schedule and integrate these treatments for your specific needs.

Yes, the practitioners offering TCM Acupuncture at our clinic are fully qualified, insured, and adhere to strict codes of safe practice and professional conduct established by relevant professional bodies.

They have undertaken specific, in-depth training in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory and acupuncture techniques.

Please feel free to ask about their specific qualifications.