Within acupuncture the most frequently used form of treatment is by inserting needles into acupuncture points. However as an acupuncturist, I am trained to use an array of techniques which enable me to bring about the most positive outcome for you as an individual.

The use of any aspect of acupuncture treatment depends upon the client’s individual condition and their treatment preferences. It is important to remember that what may be preferred or effective with one person may not be appropriate for another.

Moxibustion

Moxa is a warming herb which can be applied to or held over acupuncture points or various parts of the body for a number of reasons and is referred to as moxibustion. It is used when a client is particularly cold or a part of their body suffers from cold. Moxa can be used when a person is experiencing pain, for example: due to injury, rheumatism, menstrual cycle etc. It can also be used to lift the energy of a person when they are feeling particularly weak, fatigued or low. Some clients are also given moxa to take home and apply themselves as part of the treatment and will be shown how to do this if it is required.

Cupping

This is a therapy in which a cupping jar (cup) is attached to the skin's surface by creating a suction pressure vacuum with the cup. The cups vary in size. They are easy to apply and can be used on various parts of the body. It may feel a little strange at first to a client who has not previously received cupping as a treatment.

Cupping warms and moves the Qi in the meridians. It also helps to move blood and lymphatic fluid where there is some stagnation within the body. It can be used for drawing Cold out of the body and for diminishing pain and swelling in joints or muscles due to sprains, strains and whiplash etc. It is often good to use with gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, stomach ache and diarrhoea. It is also effective when used to treat colds, coughs, asthma and skin conditions such as eczema.

Electro-acupuncture

Electro-acupuncture (EA) generates a low electrical charge (similar to that of the biological electricity of the human body) which is passed from either one needle to another or to a specific point via clips, pads or a probe. This electrical charge has a direct influence upon cellular activity affecting individual cells, tissues, fluids, muscle and nerve endings. Over the past 40-50 years EA has gained much credence due to ongoing research in relation to its therapeutic effectiveness. It is commonly used within the health care setting in the form of a TENS machine and is often used to treat chronic pain conditions.

EA is very adaptable and can be used in conditions such as muscular and joint pain, muscle spasm, inflammation, paralysis or nerve damage and muscle wasting, as well as boosting one’s energy.