Acupuncture

Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a Chinese-based health care system to help improve health and well-being. The technique of acupuncture involves the insertion of fine sterile disposable acupuncture needles into designated acupuncture points on the body, allowing the appropriate flow of blood and qi (energy), restoring balance and improving function in the body, and relieving pain. It is based on Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) Theory. The needles used are much finer than those used for injections in western medicine.


What can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can help with maintaining and improving general health as well as the relief of symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, pain, nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, headaches, migraines, depression, anxiety, fatigue and low energy levels.

What happens in an acupuncture session?

This begins with a consultation and follows the form of TCM diagnosis including tongue and pulse diagnosis. The remaining time is spent having the acupuncture treatment itself, during which you will be able to rest deeply or even sleep. You will have up to 12 fine needles placed in appropriate acupuncture points on the body. These will usually stay in for at least 20 minutes while you rest.

When can acupuncture be given?

Acupuncture can be helpful with the relief of symptoms and side effects at any stage of breast cancer and its treatments

Number and length of appointments

Acupuncture is usually given in a course of 3-6 treatments, according to the needs of the individual. Each session lasts for up to one hour.

For a pdf factsheet please click here