What happens before the needles?
Rory asks about the concern, relevant medical history, medicines and existing care. Depending on the presentation, assessment may include movement and areas of sensitivity, alongside traditional acupuncture assessment.
You will discuss the proposed treatment, possible benefits and risks, alternatives and consent. Acupuncture is not automatically appropriate simply because you booked an appointment.
Point selection and single-use needles
Sterile single-use needles are used and disposed of after treatment. Points may be near the symptoms or in another area, such as an arm or leg. Selection depends on the assessment, comfort and the treatment rationale.
Rory will explain which areas need to be accessible and discuss positioning and privacy. There is no standard number of needles or identical routine for every person.
What might I feel?
You may notice a brief prick, pressure, heaviness or an ache. Sensations vary, and strong discomfort is not something you need to tolerate to make treatment worthwhile.
Tell Rory about sharp pain, distress, dizziness or anything that feels wrong. Treatment can be adjusted or stopped. If you prefer a needle-free option, ask whether acupressure or another approach is suitable.
Traditional Chinese medicine and contemporary perspectives
Traditional acupuncture uses named points, channels and pattern differentiation to organise assessment and treatment. Terms such as qi belong to that traditional explanatory framework; they are not interchangeable with a measured biomedical process.
Contemporary research explores possible sensory, nervous-system and tissue responses, as well as the context of treatment. There is no single established mechanism that explains every reported effect or shows acupuncture is appropriate for every condition.
Our Approach explains how Rory considers these different perspectives without treating them as identical.
How does it fit alongside other care?
Acupuncture may be considered as an adjunct for a relevant presentation. Evidence differs by condition and by the treatment used for comparison. Discuss the evidence, uncertainty and realistic goals before deciding whether to proceed.
Continue necessary medical care and prescribed medicines. With your consent, Rory can communicate with your GP, physiotherapist or other practitioner where helpful.
Safety and information to share
Tell Rory about pregnancy, bleeding problems, medicines affecting clotting, implanted medical devices, reduced skin sensation, infections and other important health conditions. Relevant risks and precautions should be discussed before treatment.
Possible side effects include local soreness, bruising, minor bleeding or feeling light-headed. Serious complications, including infection or injury to an organ such as the lung, can occur. Seek urgent medical help for breathing difficulty or chest pain after needling.
Acupuncture should never delay assessment of new or concerning symptoms.