Acupuncture in Wolverhampton and Bideford: What It Is and How It Works
Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used in China for over two thousand years. Very fine, sterile needles are placed at specific points on the body to relieve pain and encourage the body’s natural healing.
At New Beginnings Acupuncture, I treat patients in Wolverhampton and Bideford, North Devon. I specialise in pain and musculoskeletal conditions, and I work with everything from recent injuries to long-standing, severe problems.
How does acupuncture work?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture points sit along pathways called meridians, which carry blood and energy (Qi) around the body. When the flow along a meridian is restricted, pain and stiffness can follow. My aim is to unblock these pathways and restore circulation.
From a modern perspective, needling stimulates nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This can reduce pain signals, relax tight muscles and improve local blood flow.
What can acupuncture help with?
Most of the people I see come with pain or movement problems, including:
Back and neck pain: stiffness, muscle tension, sciatica and pain from long hours sitting or physical work.
Shoulder and knee pain: restricted movement, joint pain and tendon or ligament problems.
TMJ (jaw) pain: jaw tension, clicking, difficulty chewing and related headaches, particularly when night guards and other treatments have not helped.
How is acupuncture performed?
1. Consultation. Your first appointment starts with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. I will also examine the painful area and assess your movement, so your treatment is tailored to you.
2. Choosing the points. I may choose points close to the problem area, but not always. In distal acupuncture, I place the needles away from the pain, often on the hands, arms, feet or legs. I may ask you to gently move the sore area, such as your neck, shoulder or knee, while the needles are in place. Many people notice a change in pain or mobility during the session itself.
3. Needling. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than those used for injections or blood tests. They are single-use and sterile. Most people feel very little on insertion, or a brief tingle, warmth or dull ache.
4. Resting. I usually leave the needles in place for around 20 to 30 minutes while you lie comfortably and relax.
5. Aftercare. I remove the needles and dispose of them safely. You may feel relaxed, or notice an immediate easing of your symptoms. I will advise how many sessions are likely to help, as this depends on your condition and how long you have had it.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is considered a safe treatment. Minor effects such as slight bruising or tiredness afterwards are possible. Please tell me about any medical conditions or medication before your treatment.
Book your acupuncture consultation in Wolverhampton or Bideford
If you are living with back, neck, shoulder, knee or jaw pain and want to find out whether acupuncture could help, I would be glad to hear from you.
Book your appointment or call:
Wolverhampton: 01902 288142
Bideford: 01237 418765