Acupuncture is a system of healing that has been practiced for over 2,500 years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, good health is dependent on qi flowing freely through the body along pathways called meridians; when qi is blocked or imbalanced symptoms of pain, illness or emotional disruption may occur. 

Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile, single use fine needles at specific points on the meridians to connect with the body’s qi and trigger the natural healing response.

Theoretically, Five Element Acupuncture focuses on addressing the constitutional root cause of illness. In terms of treatment style, needles are typically inserted and removed immediately, often accompanied by the breath and sometimes with the area gently warmed using moxa, rather than being left in place while the practitioner leaves the room. Sessions often weave together conversation and silence as needed, creating a collaborative rhythm between practitioner and patient rather than a purely passive experience.

To learn more about this specific approach, please visit the Five Element Acupuncture page.

For a detailed and extensive list of conditions treated with acupuncture and corresponding research, please refer to the factsheets available to read on the British Acupuncture Council website.

Acupuncture is currently included in the following NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines for GPs: Headaches in over 12s; Chronic pain in over 16s

I work with individuals to overcome a variety of health challenges including autoimmune conditions, chronic conditions, pain relief, mental health conditions and women’s health.

It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as the needle is adjusted. Acupuncture needles are so fine (similar to human hair) that many people don’t feel them being inserted.

Treatment can be carried out safely during pregnancy, helping to ease symptoms like morning sickness, nausea, and tiredness, while also supporting the mental, emotional, and physical preparation for childbirth. Studies indicate that starting labour-focused care from 37 weeks may help reduce the duration of delivery. After 40 weeks, acupuncture may be used to encourage labour to begin naturally, and it can also promote overall recovery and well-being after birth.

Please visit the ‘What to expect’ page for more information on this.

Sometimes mild bruising can occur where the needle was inserted, and occasionally you may feel dizzy or tired after treatment. For more information please visit The British Acupuncture Council website.

Please have a light meal a couple of hours before your treatment and ensure you are well-hydrated. Please also avoid wearing heavy make-up or perfumes.

Acupuncture is non-invasive and generally safe to use alongside other medical treatments. It can help reduce side effects of therapies, such as cancer treatment, and improve overall well-being. Widely recognised in hospitals and clinics, acupuncture works alongside prescribed medications. If you are unsure, it’s best to check with your doctor before starting treatment, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with me when booking.

Not at all. Traditionally, acupuncture has been used as a form of preventative care. Health is about far more than the absence of illness — it’s how you feel in yourself, your outlook on life, and your overall sense of wellbeing. In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining good health can be challenging, and this ancient system offers timeless insight and support.