Acupuncture, Frequently Asked Questions

Is Acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally very safe. Serious side-effects are very rare - less than one per 10,000 treatments. See Survey on Acupuncture Safety.

Does Acupuncture have side-effects?
You need to be aware that:
- Drowsiness occurs after treatment in a small number of patients, and, if seriously affected, you are advised not to drive.
- Minor bleeding or bruising occurs after acupuncture in about 3% of treatments. - Pain during treatment occurs in about 1% of treatments.
- Existing symptoms can get worse after treatment (less than 3% of patients).
- You should tell your acupuncturist about this, but it is usually a good sign.
- Fainting can occur in certain patients, particularly at the first treatment.
In addition, if there are particular risks that apply in your case, your practitioner will discuss these with you.

How long does a session take?
Apart from the first session, treatments seldom take more than 45 minutes, but we usually allow one hour so that you don’t feel hurried.

Does my doctor have to be told or to know that I am having acupuncture?
No, but we encourage you to tell your doctor. Sometimes what we do may lead to a situation where you could or should reduce your medication, and we always suggest you discuss this with your doctor before making changes. If you want us to write to your doctor about your treatment we are glad to do so.

What can Acupuncture help with?
Many conditions benefit from acupuncture: the following lists just a few:
Depression Anxiety Stress
Back Pain Menopause Eczema
Flu Coughs Skin Disorders
Bed-wetting Poor concentration Tiredness
Stomach pain Insomnia Asthma
But in addition, many of the problems, infectious or otherwise, that affect men and women the world over, benefit from acupuncture.
Is there anything your practitioner needs to know?
Apart from the usual medical details (see Consultation), it is important that you let your practitioner know:

- If you have ever experienced a fit, faint or funny turn.
- If you have a pacemaker or any other electrical implants.
- If you have a bleeding disorder.
- If you are taking anti-coagulants or any other medication.
- If you have damaged heart valves or have any other particular risk of infection.

Blood Donor Certificates
After careful discussion between acupuncturists and doctors in the British Blood Transfusion services in 1995, it was agreed that there is no reason for acupuncture in itself to prevent people from donating blood as long as it is administered by a competent and professionally registered practitioner. However, the conditions for which acupuncture is being given may be a reason for deferral.
Certificates we issue confirm to the National Blood Service that you are being treated by a competent and professionally trained member of the British Acupuncture Council.
Medical Certificates can be issued where your practitioner considers that you should or need not refrain from work.

Insurance
As a member of the British Acupuncture Council, your practitioner is fully insured, for example, against professional negligence.

Needles
Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used in this clinic.

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