FAQ
Knowledge is key to a confident healing journey. Browse our FAQs for clear, expert answers about our treatments, what to expect, and how we can support your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Classical Chinese medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Five Element Theory and Meridian style acupuncture?
The key difference between these three acupuncture styles lies in their underlying theories, philosophies, diagnostic methods, and treatment focus:
Classical Chinese Acupuncture is rooted in ancient Chinese texts and practices that predate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), often drawing directly from the ancient Classics like the famous Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon).
A big part of Classical Chinese medicine in Stem and Branches theory. According to Wū Yùn Lìu Qì, human beings, like nature, are influenced by cyclical movements and energies. Practitioners use this system to harness these energies for maintaining and improving health. By understanding an individual’s constitutional makeup, they can identify the root causes of illnesses and develop personalized treatment plans that align with the person’s energetic strengths and imbalances
In Chinese philosophy and astrology, the Four Pillars of Destiny, or BaZi, analyze the “stems and branches” of an individual’s birth hour, day, month, and year to reveal this information.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), The term Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be somewhat misleading, as TCM is largely a modern construct. Standardized by the Chinese government in the 1950s, it integrates basic ancient theories with Western medical concepts.
The key distinction between Classical Chinese medicine and TCM lies in their sources and approach. Classical Chinese medicine draws deeply from ancient texts, maintaining a holistic and individualized approach. In contrast, while TCM acknowledges classical texts, its practice primarily relies on pattern diagnosis, making it more broadly applicable in clinical settings. Though not necessarily less effective, TCM tends to focus more on symptom management rather than addressing a patient’s deeper constitutional imbalances.
Five Element Acupuncture, popularized by J.R. Worsley is based on the five phases—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—a concept found in Classical Chinese texts but applied with a strong emphasis on constitution and emotional states.
Across all styles of Chinese medicine, diagnosis and treatment incorporate pulse and tongue analysis, with some also using palpation along specific channels.
Meridian style acupuncture, also part of Classical lineage, is a traditional approach to acupuncture based on the concept of meridians, or energy pathways, that run through the body. These meridians correspond to different organs and systems, and the flow of Qi (vital energy) through them is believed to regulate overall health.
Key Principles of Meridian-Style Acupuncture:
1: Balancing Qi Flow: The goal is to restore the smooth, balanced flow of Qi and blood within the meridians to promote healing and wellness.
2: Primary and Secondary Meridians: It focuses on the 12 main meridians (such as the Lung, Liver, Kidney, and Heart meridians), as well as extraordinary and secondary vessels that influence other energetic layers
3: Diagnosis Through Channel Theory: Practitioners assess Qi blockages, deficiencies, or excesses by palpating meridians, abdomen and using pulse and tongue diagnosis
4: Point Selection Needles are inserted at specific acupuncture points along the affected meridians to regulate Qi, relieve pain, and address imbalances.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), the body's vital energy, which flows along pathways called meridians. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to pain or illness. Acupuncture aims to restore this balance.
According to an old Chinese proverb:
“If there is free flow, there is no pain. If there is pain, there is no free flow.”
In line with Classical thought, accupuncture works by:
Restoring Qi Flow - Acupuncture stimulates specific points (acupoints) along meridians to unblock or harmonise Qi. It gives the body an impulse and directionality to move and balance.
Yin and Yang Balance - It helps regulate the body’s opposing forces, Yin (cool, passive) and Yang (warm, active), to achieve harmony and health.
In contrast, Western Medicine believes it works by:
Nervous System Stimulation - Needles stimulate nerves, triggering the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) and neurotransmitters that affect brain function.
Blood Flow and Healing - Acupuncture increases circulation to targeted areas, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
Pain Modulation - It influences the Central Nervous System (CNS), altering pain perception and reducing chronic pain.
Immune and Hormonal Regulation - Studies suggest it affects the autonomic nervous system, impacting stress, digestion, and immune function.
Does acupuncture hurt and how does it feel?
Each patient has a different response but most people agree it doesn’t hurt much, if at all. Most people describe the sensation as a mild tingling, warmth, or slight pressure rather than pain. The needles are extremely thin—much finer than those used for injections—so the insertion is often barely noticeable. Some points may feel more sensitive than others, but any discomfort is usually brief. Sometimes one may feel a mild electrical impulse sensation known as de qi. This sensation indicates to the practitioner that the qi at this point has been activated. Finally, one may feel nothing at all. Majority of the patients find acupuncture incredibly relaxing.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
It depends on the condition we treat and how quickly your body responds. Acute conditions tend to respond quicker and sometimes dramatic improvement may be felt after the first session. Naturally chronic, long standing diseases may require more treatments but on average two to four sessions are needed to start to feel the difference. As a guideline, I recommend that you return for treatment regularly to begin with – perhaps once or twice per week and once we have the symptoms under control we can suggest less frequent visits.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. The needles used are sterile, single-use, and very fine, reducing the risk of infection or injury. Most people experience little to no side effects, though some may have mild bruising, slight soreness, or temporary dizziness.
Can children and teenagers have acupuncture?
Yes they can. It can be used to address issues like digestive problems, sleep disturbances, allergies, anxiety, and pain relief.
For younger children or those who are sensitive, practitioners often use gentle techniques such as:
- Shonishin (a Japanese pediatric acupuncture method) that involves non-invasive tools to stimulate acupuncture points instead of needles.
- Smaller, thinner needles designed for children, often inserted very briefly or used with minimal stimulation.
- Acupressure or laser acupuncture as needle-free alternatives.
What do I wear for an appointment?
Loose clothing. Preferably separate top and bottom instead of dress and trousers and sleeves that can be easily rolled up or lifted out of the way. Many powerful acupuncture points are located on the abdomen, back or around knees and elbows so these may need to be exposed for treatment. I have clean towels and blankets to keep you warm and maintain privacy.
How do I feel after an appointment?
Most patients feel very relaxed and calm after the treatment but you may also feel very tired. It is usually a good sign, as it shows something has shifted in your body and it’s going through a healing process. Some people may feel worse initially before getting better. It is a very individual process. It is best not to plan anything major that evening and just relax, take a bath or sleep if possible, to give your body the best chance to rebalance and restore.