Medical Acupuncture
Blending traditional acupuncture techniques with Western Medical thinking
Wednesday Afternoons at the Mayfair Community Centre, Church Stretton
&
First Monday of each month at Shropshire Health Clinic, Leaton
​
​

Western Medical Acupuncture can be used to treat:
​​​
-
Migraines / tension headache
-
Chronic pains
-
Low back pain
-
Neck pain
-
Overactive bladder syndrome and pelvic pain
-
Morning sickness (hyperemesis) in pregnancy
-
... and many other conditions (contact me to discuss)
​
A standard acupuncture appointment (Wednesdays at Mayfair Community Centre, Church Stretton) is 30 minutes long. During your appointment fine sterile acupuncture needles are inserted, targeting specific structures or relevant traditional acupuncture points. We will typically use up to 10 needles, left in place for 10 - 20 minutes as you relax. Most people find this experience very pleasant. You may not be aware of any immediate sensation, but some people report heat, pressure or a dull ache. After the session please take care to journey home safely as some people feel sleepy. A positive response to acupuncture may last for hours, days or weeks (it is very variable). Many painful conditions need repeated appointments (typically 5 - 10 treatments on a weekly basis). You can choose to book a one-off appointment, or a block of 5 treatments.
​
I am delighted to now also offer longer acupuncture appointments of 55 minutes on the first Monday of each month, in the beautiful clinic rooms at Shropshire Health Centre, Leaton. These longer appointments allow more time and space for relaxation. This can be hugely beneficial for painful conditions such as chronic headaches, neck pain or back pain which are often linked to myofascial tension. Soft props (such as bolsters, blankets and eye pillows) are used for support, warmth, and comfort. Senses are soothed with gentle music and essential oils (optional). Once you are truly comfortable, acupuncture needles are inserted. During these sessions, needles are typically left in place for longer, perhaps 20-30 minutes, and we have more opportunity to manipulate the needles or change positions. This unhurried approach promotes relaxation, which can really help painful conditions linked to stress, postural tension and busy lifestyles. Longer appointments may suit you if you feel in need of some time out / tension release, but cannot commit to a full course of acupuncture.
​
Electroacupuncture is also offered, on a case by case basis, where appropriate. The needles are connected to a small electroacupuncture device which transmits a mild electrical current between the needles. The intensity can be increased or decreased to achieve a comfortable sensation. This is a very individualised treatment; some people prefer very mild electrical stimulation and some people prefer and respond best to more intense stimulation. The device itself looks a little bit like a TENS machine, but unlike TENS the current is being delivered under the skin via needles in the target tissues (muscles and myofascia).
You will be shown how to control the intensity on the device, so that you are in control. This electrical stimulation is thought to enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture, and may be especially useful for stubborn pains or people who respond to more intensity. Please contact me if you wish to book an electroacupuncture treatment.
​
​​