Acupuncture Pain Relief London

Question and Answers

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system, which, in turn, releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either alter the experience of pain or release other chemicals that influence the body's self-regulating systems. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well being.

Studies suggest that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry in a positive way. This is accomplished by changing the release of neurotransmitters (biochemical substances that stimulate or inhibit nerve impulses) and neurohormones (naturally-occurring chemical substances that can change the structure or function, or impact the activity of, a body organ).

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

The World Health organisation (W.H.O) lists 40 conditions that may benefit from acupuncture. These include respiratory conditions, pain and chronic pain conditions, gynaecological disorders including PMS, gastrointestinal disorders and many other health problems. In 1997 the National Institute of Health concluded that acupuncture successfully treats muscular and skeletal disorders, helps with drug addiction and weight loss and cures some illnesses, such as asthma, migraines and Bell's palsy.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless .The sensations that follow range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight numbness/ dull ache, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion. The needles used for acupuncture are much finer that the standard hypodermic needle. Patients often describe treatment as relaxing, some fall asleep and many are surprised at how painless it is.

Are Chinese herbs safe?

Chinese herbs are very safe when prescribed by a properly trained practitioner. In the U.K. there are strict rules and regulations for practitioners to adhere to. The Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine was set up to regulate the practice of Chinese medicine in the U.K. Allergic reactions are very rare and will cause no damage, as long as the patient stops taking the herbs straight away. All RCHM members give guidance on taking herbs to their patients. It is also very important for good quality authentic herbs to be provided to protect public safety, and the RCHM is currently working with the main suppliers and Kew Gardens in order to ensure that the products used by our members meet the highest standards. As a member of the RCHM, Amanda Thomas sources good quality herbs from U.K suppliers and aims to protect the safety of her patients.