Welcome & Patient Information
Welcome to New Beginnings Acupuncture
Thank you for choosing New Beginnings Acupuncture and for taking a step towards a new beginning and a healthier, more balanced life.
I look forward to meeting you and learning more about how I can support you with your individual health goals.
This information is designed to help you feel comfortable and prepared for your appointment. Please take a few minutes to read it before your first treatment and keep it for future reference.
If you have any questions about your individual circumstances, please don't hesitate to contact me.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of therapy in which very fine, single-use, sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body.
Depending on your individual needs, other techniques may also be used alongside acupuncture. These can include moxibustion, cupping, massage, electro-acupuncture or low-level laser therapy.
Any additional treatment will always be explained to you beforehand, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered to be a safe treatment when performed by a suitably trained practitioner using appropriate procedures and sterile, single-use needles.
Most people experience no significant problems following treatment. When minor reactions do occur, they are usually short-lived.
Possible reactions include:
Minor bleeding or a small spot of blood
Bruising
Temporary soreness or tenderness where a needle was inserted
A temporary worsening or change in symptoms
Feeling tired or drowsy
Feeling very relaxed
Light-headedness or, occasionally, fainting
Fainting is uncommon but is more likely to occur during a person's first treatment.
Occasionally, people may experience a temporary change in their symptoms following treatment. If you notice anything that concerns you, please contact me so that I can advise you appropriately.
Serious complications from acupuncture are uncommon. Your safety is always my priority, and I will discuss any relevant risks with you as part of your assessment.
Is there anything I need to tell my practitioner?
Before treatment, I will take a detailed case history so that I can understand your health and decide whether acupuncture is appropriate for you.
It is important that you provide accurate and up-to-date information about your health, including any medication or treatment you are receiving.
Please tell me if you:
Have ever experienced a fit, fainting episode or unexplained loss of consciousness
Have a pacemaker or other electrical implant
Have a bleeding disorder or are prone to excessive bleeding or bruising
Take anticoagulants or other medication that affects blood clotting
Take immune-suppressing medication
Have a damaged heart valve or have been advised that you are at particular risk of infection
Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
Have recently undergone surgery or another significant medical procedure
Have any other health condition or concern that you think may be relevant
Please also let me know if there have been any changes to your health or medication since completing your consultation or previous treatment.
If you are unsure whether something is relevant, please mention it. It is always better to provide too much information than too little.
What can I expect during my treatment?
Your first appointment includes an assessment and discussion of your main concerns, your health history and your treatment goals.
I will then explain the proposed treatment and answer any questions you may have before we begin.
During acupuncture, you may feel a small tap or brief sensation as a needle is inserted. Some people notice a mild ache, heaviness, warmth or tingling around a needle, while others barely notice the needles at all.
Acupuncture can be deeply relaxing, and some patients become very relaxed or even fall asleep during treatment.
If you feel uncomfortable at any point, please let me know. You can always ask for a needle to be adjusted or removed.
What should I wear?
Acupuncture is performed on the skin rather than through clothing.
Many commonly used acupuncture points are located on the arms and legs, so you will usually not need to undress completely.
I recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, such as a T-shirt and loose trousers or shorts, which makes it easier to access the areas that may need to be treated.
If an area requires additional clothing to be removed, I will explain this beforehand and ensure that you are comfortable and appropriately covered.
How long will my appointment take?
Please allow up to 1 hour for your acupuncture appointment.
Your first appointment may include a more detailed assessment, so please allow yourself enough time rather than arriving immediately before another commitment.
How many treatments will I need?
Every person is different, and the appropriate treatment plan depends on your individual circumstances, symptoms, health history and goals.
Some people notice changes after their first few treatments, while others require more time.
Rather than committing you to a fixed number of sessions, I will assess your response to treatment and discuss the most appropriate approach with you as we go.
You are always welcome to ask questions about your progress and treatment plan.
What should I do after treatment?
Most people can return to their normal activities after acupuncture.
However, you may feel particularly relaxed or tired after treatment. If this happens, allow yourself some time to rest and take care when driving or operating machinery.
It is generally a good idea to:
Drink some water after treatment
Avoid immediately rushing into strenuous activity if you feel tired or light-headed
Pay attention to how your body feels following treatment
Let me know about any reactions or changes you experience before your next appointment
Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks.
You can have herbal teas.
If you experience bruising, mild soreness or a small amount of bleeding at a needle site, this is usually temporary and should settle naturally.
What if I experience a reaction after treatment?
If you have any concerns following treatment, please contact me for guidance.
Most minor reactions are short-lived. However, if you experience something that concerns you, it is important to let me know so that I can advise you and take it into account when planning future treatment.
If you have a significant or urgent medical problem following treatment, seek appropriate medical attention rather than waiting for a response from me.
If you are unsure whether something is related to your acupuncture treatment, please get in touch.
What if I need to cancel or change my appointment?
If you need to cancel or rearrange your appointment, I kindly ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice whenever possible.
This gives me the opportunity to offer the appointment to another patient.
If something unexpected happens and you are unable to provide 48 hours' notice, please contact me as soon as possible.
Your privacy
Your personal and health information is treated confidentially and handled in accordance with applicable data protection requirements.
Please read the Privacy Policy provided with your appointment booking before attending your first treatment.
Your questions are welcome
Your treatment should always be a collaborative process.
If you have any questions, concerns or something you would like to discuss before your appointment, please feel free to contact me.
Mobile: 07386 001694
Email: tiago@nbacupuncture.com
I look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to New Beginnings Acupuncture.
Tiago Marques, MBAA
New Beginnings Acupuncture