Acupuncture is based on principles which have evolved over nearly two thousand years. There is a growing body of evidence-based clinical research showing that traditional acupuncture safely treats a wide range of common health problems.
How acupuncture works
Acupuncture works on the principle that illness and pain occur when the natural equilibrium of the body becomes out of balance. It recognises that physical, emotional and mental factors are all interdependent and part of the necessary balance for good health. By accessing channels which flow through the body acupuncture stimulates the natural healing process and restores equilibrium. The focus of treatment is based on the individual, not the illness, and the diagnosis is unique to each individual.
As more people experience first-hand the benefits of acupuncture, it is being increasingly recognised as a valid and effective treatment option for a range conditions.
What are the benefits of acupuncture?
Many people seek acupuncture to help relieve specific conditions, especially pain conditions such as tension headaches, migraines, neck or back pain, osteoarthritis of the knee and temporomandibular joint pain. Clinical trials have shown that acupuncture does relieve these symptoms at least in the short term. Whatever your particular problem because treatment is designed to affect your whole body not just your symptoms, you may notice other niggling complaints improve with a course of treatment. Indeed, some people chose acupuncture when they feel their bodily functions are out of balance, but they have no obvious diagnosis. Once tried, many people have regular or ‘top-up ‘ treatments because they find it so beneficial and relaxing. For some conditions such as migraine regular treatment can prevent flare-ups from occurring. Another benefit of acupuncture is it can be given alongside other therapies and/or medications, in almost all circumstances.
Acupuncture and National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)
Acupuncture is currently included in the NICE guidelines for the following conditions
Charlotte Johnston Acupuncture 