Lucinda Cotton  BSc MBAcC
   
  Acupuncturist  
  in Sheffield and Dronfield

 

Does acupuncture hurt?

No! Acupuncture needles are much finer than needles used for injections, and therefore the process is almost painless. A light pin-prick may be felt on insertion, and there after a slight tingling sensation, heaviness or dull ache around the area needled may be experienced. Most patients find the treatment very relaxing or invigorating.

 

How long will the treatment last?

The first acupuncture treatment with myself is usually slightly longer than subsequent treatments and lasts around an hour to 90 minutes. Subsequent treatments last around 45 minutes to an hour.

 

What happens in the treatment?

During your first consultation I will ask detailed questions about your presenting condition, general health, lifestyle and family history.  I will also take your pulse on both wrists, palpate areas on your body that might be painful and examine your tongue in order to gain a greater understanding of your condition and help to make a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Fine needles are then inserted into the relevant acupuncture points and left in for about 20 minutes. During this time the patient is encouraged to relax, enjoy the treatment or even have a nap!

 

How many sessions will I need?
As each person and their condition is unique, the length of treatment differs. Change is usually felt after four treatments which are normally weekly at first. Sometimes treatment is dramatic and only one or two treatments are required while for other patients, results are more subtle and may take several months.

 

Is it safe?
Yes. I am a fully qualified and insured acupuncturist. I observe a strict Code of Practice, standard of care and level of conduct. To be insured all acupuncturists must have been trained for at least three years in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture and western science.

All needles used are sterile and disposable. Patients receiving acupuncture are still eligible to donate blood.