For thousands of years, the Chinese and other Eastern peoples have been using acupuncture to restore, promote and maintain good health.

To the Chinese today, it is as much the norm to see an acupuncturist as it is for us to visit our GP.

A traditional acupuncturist will typically question his patient about their health, examine the patient's tongue, take the pulse at the wrist and after due consideration treat the patient by the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body according to meridian lines and the 5 elements.

A western acupuncturist will also take a case history, and will diagnose the patient according to orthodox medicine. Needles are still inserted in the meridian points, but specifically in order to stimulate the nervous system to treat the related organs or tissues at fault.

How is the treatment carried out?
This involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles in specific locations called acupuncture points. At these points special nerve fibres are found in abundance, which are stimulated by the acupuncture needle. The needles are generally left in position for 15 to 20 minutes, and every few minutes or so they are gently twirled to provide extra stimulation. Occasionally, a mid electrical impulse is used to enhance the effects of acupuncture. People think that acupuncture treatment is painful. It is definitely not.

How many treatments are needed?
Acupuncture is effective for many conditions, some responding better than others. So a treatment varies from person to person. Generally most patients start with three treatments at weekly intervals. If more treatments are required the time interval is extended longer and longer until the patient returns for an occasional 'top-up' as an when required. Often the effect of acupuncture is permanent so when the patient has recovered from the illness no further treatment is needed.

How does acupuncture work?
Eastern philosophy theory suggests that a balance is required between Yin and Yang and the five elements. Ancient Chinese practitioners of acupuncture identified 14 meridians, which are located all over the body.They claim that the 'chi' or 'qi' (energy) flows along these meridians and if a person is unwell there is either too much or too little energy flowing along a particular meridian. So the needles are inserted in specific points to sedate or tonify the meridians to bring balance and natural flow of energy.

HAVE YOU TRIED AN ACUPUNCTURE FACE LIFT

For example, acupuncture treatments can clear up persistent pimples and acne, give skin a dewy hydrated glow, brighten your eyes and improve weakened vision. It evens out your skin tone by reducing redness, it tones sagging muscles, lessens the look of fine lines as well as minimizes deeper laugh lines and forehead furrows. In addition, since the experience is so calming, it relaxes your mind and body which helps reduce your stress level. If you've never tried facial acupuncture but are suffering from any of these symptoms, come and try facial acupuncture at cityhealing to rejuvinate yourself.