Acupuncture
Acupuncture
Explore the benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or acupoints. The goal of acupuncture is to promote health, alleviate pain, and address various physical and mental health conditions.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works by inserting hair-thin needles into carefully chosen acupuncture points on the body. These points correspond to specific organs and bodily functions. The insertion of needles is virtually painless and often induces a deep sense of relaxation. Once inserted, the needles can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and trigger the body's innate healing mechanisms.
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Key aspects of acupuncture include:
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Acupuncture Points: The human body has hundreds of acupuncture points along energy pathways called meridians. Each point is associated with specific functions and organs in the body.
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Balancing Qi: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) believes that the body's vital energy, known as "Qi" (pronounced chee), flows through these meridians. When Qi becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to various health problems. Acupuncture aims to restore the flow of Qi and balance the body's energy.
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Needle Insertion: During an acupuncture session, very thin needles are inserted into selected acupuncture points. These needles are typically painless when inserted correctly.
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Stimulation: Once the needles are in place, they may be gently manipulated by the acupuncturist to stimulate the Qi and encourage its proper flow. This manipulation can involve gentle twirling, lifting, or tapping of the needles.
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Holistic Approach: Acupuncture is often used as part of a holistic treatment plan. Practitioners consider not only the specific symptoms but also the underlying imbalances in the body. This approach can address a wide range of physical and mental health issues.
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Acupuncture is commonly used to treat conditions such as chronic pain, musculoskeletal disorders, migraines, stress, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and more. It is a safe practice when performed by a licensed and trained acupuncturist who uses sterile needles and follows proper hygiene practices.
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Benefits of Acupuncture:
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Pain Management: Acupuncture is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving various types of pain, including chronic pain conditions like arthritis, migraines, and back pain.
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Stress Reduction: Many people turn to acupuncture to alleviate stress and anxiety. The treatment promotes relaxation and can help balance the body's stress response.
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Improved Sleep: Acupuncture can improve sleep patterns, making it a valuable therapy for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disorders.
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Enhanced Mood: Acupuncture is known to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain.
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Digestive Health: Acupuncture can help with digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion, by promoting better gastrointestinal function.
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Immune System Support: Regular acupuncture sessions can strengthen the immune system, making it more resilient against illnesses.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session:
During an acupuncture session, you can expect a calm and soothing environment. After discussing your health concerns, medical history and symptoms with the acupuncturist, you will lie comfortably on a treatment couch. Examination and diagnosis followed up by treatment planning will ensue. It is a good idea to wear loose fitting clothing to make it easier for the acupuncturist to access the necessary acupuncture points.
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You’ll be asked to lie down on a comfortable treatment couch where sterile, hair-thin needles are gently inserted into specific acupuncture points on your body. Once the needles are inserted, you’ll have time to wind down and relax.
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You’ll have a post-treatment discussion with your clinician to share your experience and any immediate effects you’ve noticed. Depending on your condition and goals, you may be advised to schedule additional acupuncture sessions. The number and frequency will vary from person to person.
Conclusion: Acupuncture is a time-tested holistic therapy that offers a multitude of physical and mental health benefits. Whether you seek pain relief, stress reduction, improved sleep, or a general boost in well-being, acupuncture may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Always consult with a qualified acupuncturist to explore how this ancient practice can support your journey to better health and vitality.
Why book with Pavlina?
Pavlina holds a Distinction-level Post Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture and a Professional Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine from the Northern College of Acupuncture. Currently pursuing an MSc in Chinese Herbal Medicine, she is a qualified Chinese Herbalist.
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Pavlina is a member of the British Acupuncture Council and the British Medical Acupuncture Society, emphasizing her evidence-based approach. Her practice offers various treatments, including traditional acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, dry needling, and electro-acupuncture. She aims to enhance patients' physical, emotional, and mental well-being, providing integrative health services alongside Western treatments.
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With three years of MSc-level education and practical experience, Pavlina specializes in acupuncture for chronic pain, musculoskeletal dysfunctions, soft tissue injuries, and sports injury recovery. Her research interests encompass menopausal symptom management, cancer treatment-related side effects, and post-operative recovery for anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
Pavlina also offers facial and scalp acupuncture for conditions like tension headaches, migraines, and Bell's Palsy, along with abdominal acupuncture for PCOS, endometriosis, IBS, and menstrual cycle regulation.
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