Acupuncture FAQs

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of therapy in which fine single-use sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body. Practitioners may also use additional techniques alongside acupuncture such as moxibustion, cupping, massage and electro-acupuncture, all of which will be explained by the practitioner.

Is acupuncture safe?

Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as slight soreness or bruising where a needle was placed. Serious side effects are rare when acupuncture is given by a trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles.

The most common minor side effects are -

• minor bleeding
• bruising
• mild pain at the site of needling
• sometimes aggravation of symptoms before improvement

In addition, some patients experience other responses including:

• drowsiness, tiredness and feeling relaxed
• fainting during treatment, although this is rare and most likely during the first treatment.

Most people feel pleasantly relaxed with no ill effects after treatment.

What happens at the first appointment?

Your first appointment includes a full consultation and your first acupuncture treatment.

We will begin by discussing your main concern, medical history, lifestyle, sleep, digestion, and overall health. From a Chinese medicine perspective, different aspects of your health are connected, so this helps me understand your symptoms and history as a whole, and plan the right treatment for you.

After the consultation, you will usually receive acupuncture treatment during the same session.

Needles are gently inserted and left in place for around 20–30 minutes while you relax.

You will also receive personalised advice and a suggested treatment plan based on your needs.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is generally not painful. The needles used are extremely fine, much thinner than injection needles.

You may feel a slight sensation as the needle is inserted, followed by a feeling of heaviness, warmth, tingling, or dull pressure. These sensations are normal and indicate the body’s response to treatment.

Most patients find acupuncture deeply relaxing, and many even fall asleep during the session.

If you ever feel uncomfortable, the treatment can be adjusted at any time.

What conditions do you treat?

I focus on pain and muscle and joint problems. Most people come to see me for:

• Back pain and sciatica

• Neck pain and stiffness

• Shoulder pain, including frozen shoulder

• Knee pain

• TMJ (jaw) pain

• Trigeminal neuralgia

Everyone is different, so I’ll talk through your symptoms and history at your free online consultation and let you know honestly whether acupuncture is suitable for you. Where needed, I’ll suggest seeing your GP first. You can find more about each condition on my Conditions I Treat page.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture comes from traditional Chinese medicine, which has been practised for over 2,000 years.

In this tradition, the body is described as having channels, called meridians, through which energy, known as Qi, flows.

Acupuncture points lie along these channels, and treatment involves placing very fine, sterile needles at chosen points. I trained in traditional Chinese medicine in Lisbon and China, and I combine this traditional approach with a modern understanding of anatomy and pain.

From a modern scientific perspective, research suggests acupuncture may:

• Stimulate the nervous system

• Improve blood circulation

• Reduce inflammation

• Release natural pain-relieving chemicals

• Promote relaxation and regulate stress responses

I mainly treat pain and musculoskeletal conditions, and I’m happy to talk through whether acupuncture is suitable for you.

What should I do after treatment?

After acupuncture, it is best to give your body time to rest and respond to the treatment.

We generally recommend:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise for the rest of the day

• Keeping yourself warm

• Keep hydrated

• Eating nourishing food

• Paying attention to how your body feels

Some people feel relaxed or slightly tired and sleepy after treatment, while others feel energised. Both responses are normal.

If you have any concerns after your session, you are always welcome to contact the clinic.

Should I eat before treatment?

Yes, absolutely!

it is recommended to eat a light meal or snack before your appointment, especially for morning appointments.

Receiving acupuncture on an empty stomach may make you feel light-headed or uncomfortable. At the same time, avoid arriving immediately after a very heavy meal.

Being well hydrated and relaxed helps you get the most benefit from treatment.

What qualifications do you have?

I received a Bachelor’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the University of Chinese Medicine Dr. Pedro Choy in Lisbon and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China, including a clinical internship at the Teaching Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

I am a member of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians, The Acupuncture Society and the British Acupuncture Federation, and I am registered with the Acupuncture Regulatory Authority. These bodies set high standards of training, ethics and patient care.

Ongoing professional development and continued training are an important part of my practice.

Can acupuncture work alongside medication?

Yes. Acupuncture can usually be used safely alongside conventional medical treatment and prescribed medication.

Many patients use acupuncture as a complementary therapy to support their overall health while continuing care from their GP or specialist.

However, acupuncture should not replace prescribed medication without medical advice. Always inform your practitioner about any medication you are taking so your treatment can be tailored appropriately.

Why choose this clinic / what makes your approach different?

Treatment at New Beginnings Acupuncture starts with understanding your symptoms and history as a whole, not just the immediate problem.

Each treatment is personalised to your individual health, lifestyle, and constitution. The aim is to support your overall wellbeing alongside easing your symptoms.

Appointments are unrushed, and time is taken to listen carefully, explain your treatment, and support you throughout your health journey.

Is acupuncture covered by private insurance?

Some private health insurance providers cover acupuncture treatment, depending on your policy.

We recommend checking directly with your insurance provider to confirm your level of cover and whether a referral is required.

If you need receipts or documentation for insurance claims, these can be provided upon request.

You are always welcome to contact the clinic and enquire about your private insurance.

Is there anything your practitioner needs to know?

Your practitioner will always take a thorough case history before commencing treatment. It is important that they have as much detail as possible about your medical history and any medication you are taking. You should let your practitioner know if you:

• have ever experienced a fit, faint or funny turn

• have a pacemaker or any other electrical implants

• have a bleeding disorder

• are taking anticoagulants, immune suppressants or any other medication

• have damaged heart valves or any particular risk of infection

What to do if you experience any side effects following acupuncture?

If you have any concerns following treatment you should contact your practitioner for further guidance.

Your practitioner can deal with the majority of incidents and refer you if necessary.

It is important to make your practitioner aware of any responses you have to treatment; they can then adjust any future treatments and make sure that whatever you are experiencing is not out of the ordinary.

The majority of minor adverse events pass very quickly following treatment, usually within 24 to 48 hours.

Having spoken to your practitioner, if you still have concerns you should call or arrange to discuss your symptoms with your GP.

What kind of clothing do I need to wear? Do I need to undress?

Acupuncture is performed on the skin, never through clothing. Many commonly used Acupuncture points are on the arms and legs, so there is no need to undress. In some special cases, yes, but this will be discussed with you prior to your treatment. It’s recommend you wear loose clothing such as a t-shirt and loose trousers.

How many sessions do I need?

Everyone responds differently. Many people have a course of 6 to 12 sessions, and we’ll review how you’re getting on after the first few.

How long will my appointment last?

Please allow up to 1 HOUR for your acupuncture appointment.

What can I expect to feel during my treatment?

Acupuncture can be very relaxing and most people report only feeling a small tap, some even fall asleep during the treatment. This can be discussed further during your appointment if you have any concerns.

How much will the acupuncture treatment cost?

My online consultation is free. Your first session is £60 in both Wolverhampton and Bideford. Follow-up sessions are £50 in Wolverhampton and £60 in Bideford. You can pay by cash or card at your appointment. See my prices page for full details.

Do you have more questions?

If you have any more questions book your free consultation here.