What Techniques Do We Use?

According to Oriental philosophy our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy known as Qi (pronounced Chee). Qi moves around our bodies in meridians (sometimes also referred to as channels). If we think of these meridians as similar to streams and rivers we can understand how, in just the same way, they can become blocked or silted up.

Acupuncture

An acupuncturist works by inserting very fine acupuncture needles into specific points in the meridians. This helps the Qi to flow effectively, thereby stimulating the body's own healing response.

When we think of needles we often think of those used for injections or blood tests. Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to these, mainly because they are solid (not hollow) and are very much finer (and therefore less painful). However, they do have one very important feature in common in that they are sterile and designed for “single use” only. Needles may be inserted and immediately removed, or may be left in place for up to thirty minutes, depending on the effect required.

Moxibustion (moxa)

We also use other forms of treatment alongside acupuncture. One such treatment is “moxibustion” (moxa). In this treatment dried ground leaves, usually of the species Mugwort (Latin name: Artemisia vulgaris), are used either directly on the skin or just above the skin over specific acupuncture points or meridians. The herb is lit and as it smoulders slowly, heat permeates into the body and affects the flow of qi (energy) and blood in the area being treated.

“Direct moxibustion” is commonly used for specific areas that need treatment. This where the practitioner shapes the moxa into a tiny cone and places it directly onto the body. The cone is removed as soon as the patient feels heat.

Moxa sticks are often used in more generalised areas (this is known as “indirect moxibustion”). The sticks resemble a large cigar or an oversized incense stick, which is lit at one end and then held about an inch above the point or area to be treated. The stick is usually rotated or a ‘pecking’ motion is used to allow the heat to penetrate the body.

In general, moxibustion is used when the patient’s complaint is diagnosed as a ‘cold’ condition. Moxa helps to warm and stimulate qi (energy) and its rejuvenating qualities help assist the re-balancing affect of the acupuncture needles.

Gua Sha

Another type of treatment is called Gua Sha (pronounced Gwah Shah). This is a cleansing technique used by many practitioners of traditional medicines. The technique dates back around 3000 years. It involves the methodical application of pressure and stimulation of the skin using a round-edged instrument. Traditionally a china spoon, or a simple coin was used, but today the preferred instrument is a small scraper that is used with oil to aid application.

The scraping effect of the skin results in the appearance of small red or purple spots called 'sha'. The colour and degree of spots is indicative of a reaction. If you have no ‘sha’ (colour or spots) it is indicative of little change. The darker the colour of the spots and the more spots there are the better the reaction! The skin is not damaged in any way and the redness fades in a few days.

The technique is used to move qi and/or blood stagnation, which is considered to be the main cause of pain and stiffness in muscles and joints. It can promote good circulation and release tension as well as remove toxins. Gua sha is also useful for the prevention and treatment of acute illness, upper respiratory and digestive problems, and many other disorders.

Cupping

We may sometimes also use a technique called cupping. A vacuum is created in small glass cups that are placed over specific acupuncture points or channels. The vacuum holds the cups in place and in turn helps promote the flow of Qi and Blood where stagnation is causing pain or discomfort. Cupping is also a very useful treatment for colds or flu and can promote a much faster recovery.

Lifestyle

Finally, to aid your treatment we may make some lifestyle recommendations. If we do make suggestions they would be individual and we would work with you to ensure that they were realistic and achievable. They could include, for example, dietary advice, changes to work/life balance, changes to exercise regimes and so on.