Traditional Acupuncture In traditional Chinese medicine, our health and well- being is dependent on the smooth flow of Qi - our vital life force - through a series of channels, or meridians, that lie beneath the skin. When the smooth flow of Qi is disrupted, for example by stress, hereditary factors or trauma, illness may result. Traditional acupuncture seeks to harmonize the flow of Qi through the meridians, thereby enabling the body to restore balance and promote self-healing. Receiving Treatment This system of medicine regards each person as unique. Your treatment and your response to it will therefore be individual. At the initial consultation, I will take a detailed medical history from you, as well as asking about your current symptoms. I will also feel your wrist pulses to assess the flow of Qi in the meridians. With this information, acupuncture points will be chosen to help your specific condition, and to enhance your overall well-being. The sterile, disposable needles are exceptionally fine, flexible and solid, very different from those used in injections and blood tests. When a needle is inserted, a tingle or dull ache may be felt. Needles may be inserted briefly or for up to 20 minutes. People commonly experience a pleasant feeling of relaxation during treatment sessions. Benefits of treatment People have acupuncture to help with a wide variety of conditions. Some of these include: acute/chronic muscular problems; back pain; depression; anxiety; stress; chronic fatigue; menstrual disorders. Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional medicine in the treatment or management of chronic conditions. As well as helping with the main symptom or condition, the balancing nature of acupuncture treatment can have other benefits including better sleep, improved digestion, increased energy levels and a general feeling of well-being. How many treatments are needed? Acupuncture is used to help people with a wide range of medical conditions, from the short term to the chronic. The benefit gained from treatment and the number of sessions required may depend on the condition/illness and your responsiveness to acupuncture. Some people experience a speedy improvement in their condition and do not require further treatment; some have ongoing treatment sessions several times a year to maintain their state of health; for other people, regular treatment helps in the management of chronic, progressive diseases. It is helpful to let your doctor or other health care professional know that you are receiving acupuncture. Sue Whittaker My training: I graduated from the College of Traditional Acupuncture, Leamington Spa, in 1991. As well as practising acupuncture, I undertook further training in Zero Balancing, a form of integrative bodywork, training as a teacher and Certified Zero Balancer. If you have any questions about whether acupuncture may be able to help you, please contact me on 01384-376804, Mobile 07504026236

The Norton Homeopathic Practice 103 Worcester Street Stourbridge DY8 1AX