Is Acupuncture Safe

The results of two independent surveys published in the British Medical Journal in 2001 (MacPherson et al, White et al, both BMJ September 2001) concluded that the risk of serious adverse reaction to acupuncture is less than 1 in 10,000. The needles used are single-use, sterile, and disposable. Responses to treatment can sometimes include tiredness or mild dizziness, and very occasionally minor bruising may occur. However, all such reactions are short-lived.

As members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) we are required to have a minimum of 3 years full-time training in the theory and clinical practice of acupuncture and western biomedical sciences. We are bound by the BAcC's strict Codes of Safe Practice, Ethical and Professional Conduct and stringent standards of hygiene and sterilisation which have been approved by the Department of Heath and provide protection against the transmission of infectious disease.

We are also licensed by Calderdale M.B.C. and are bound by their Code of Practice and Bye-Laws. We always use single-use, disposable, stainless steel needles.

Should I Tell My Doctor

If you are receiving treatment from your doctor or hospital consultant then it makes sense to tell them about your plans to have acupuncture. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking any prescibed medications, but your doctor should be consulted before any change of prescription. Always tell us about any medication or changes to medication you are taking as this may affect your response to treatment.

What Happens

The first consultation includes treatment and will usually last 2 hours. All aspects of your health and lifestyle are assessed in order to treat the underlying cause of your condition as well as the symptoms. We will ask you about your current symptoms, any treatments you have received so far, your medical history and that of your close family, your diet, lifestyle and general health and wellbeing. We will also look at your tongue and take your pulses on both wrists. Subsequent appointments last 1 hour. Loose comfortable clothing should be worn and be aware that we may need to access your torso as well as your arms and legs.

There are around 500 acupuncture points and we will normally select 10-12 in which to insert very fine sterile needles. We may supplement the needle treatment with the application of moxa, a smouldering warm herb used to encourage the smooth flow of Qi. Other methods used to stimulate points include massage, cupping and electro-acupuncture. TCM encourages you to understand the nature of your illness and how to promote health. We may offer dietary, exercise and lifestyle suggestions for you to enhance the healing process.

It is advisable to avoid some things before and directly after treatment as they are thought to affect your Qi. These include: alcohol, excessive fatigue or hunger, large meals, sexual activity, hot baths and extreme emotional states.