What is Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine – (TCM)

Chinese Medicine is a system of health care dating back thousands of years and its Modalities include Acupuncture, Herbalism, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Dietary Therapy and Tuina.  The Traditional Chinese Medicine Philosophy and its modalities work with the natural energy within all living things promoting a holistic approach for the body to balance and heal itself on a physical, emotional and psychological level.

Acupuncture is one of these modalities and is the world’s largest drug free healthcare therapy which is also compatible with western (orthodox) medicine.   It is based on an energetic system called “Qi” which the ancient Chinese discovered as energy that flows along specific pathways called Meridians, also known as Channels.  Acupuncture promotes the smooth flow of Qi.  When an imbalance occurs in the body, Qi is obstructed, resulting in illness.  By inserting fine pre sterilized, disposable needles into specific points along the Meridians, the natural flow of Qi is restored and the body is encouraged to return to full health.

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Where to start

A detailed assessment of the person is taken on the first visit to the Acupuncture & TCM Clinic, where medical history, lifestyle, family, diet, work situation, emotional factors and all symptoms are discussed and taken into account.  Current medication should also be detailed.  Traditional diagnostic skills such as Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis are carried out to determine the course of treatment required for each person.  The treatment is safeguarded and conducted with total confidentiality and the person can be assured of full care and attention at all times.

The tongue is considered an internal organ in Chinese Medicine and through observation, based on its shape, colour, coating, and moisture, the practitioner will determine the progression and degree of illness.  The pulse is also taken to establish any imbalance in the body which is observed on both wrists, and unlike western medicine, there are 3 pulses on each wrist, which are taken in three different areas and on 3 levels to ascertain and bring about balance of energy to the internal organs.

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How long will it take and how often do I need to be treated

The first appointment involves an initial detailed consultation and treatment so it may take 1 and a half to 2 hours.  This first session is very important to ensure all the information is gathered and the person is also allowed the time to relax and benefit from the procedure.  Subsequent appointments may take 1 hour or more depending on each person. 

Everyone has a unique constitution and the amount of treatment required very much depends on the individual, the degree of illness, the length of time of the injury or illness, and the general health of the patient.

It is recommended to have treatment on a weekly basis if possible to begin with to aid the healing process.   Treatment sessions can vary from person to person, and again depending on severity and whether the problem is acute or chronic.  Some may have up to four or six treatments, and patients may feel an immediate response, whilst for others it may take several treatments before an improvement is noticed.  Again the experience is very unique and dependent on the individual’s constitution. 

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Is it painful?

In the hands of a comprehensively trained practitioner your safety is assured.  Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible and roughly the diameter of a human hair.  In most cases the needles are inserted without discomfort however some feel a sensation such as electricity or a heavy sensation in the area and this is only temporary.  The majority of people find the experience quite relaxing and many fall asleep during treatment.

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How will I feel after the treatment ?

After the first treatment many people feel tired.  Why?.  In order to rectify the imbalance in the body, the qi must be moved.  This movement of qi can often cause initial tiredness, but the feeling is temporary.   Thereafter the body readjusts and recognizes the feeling of smooth flowing qi.

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Patient safety

All Acupuncture needles used are CE marked, single use (one needle per point), sterile and disposable.  The use of Acupuncture and TCM is entirely safe and free from harmful side effects.

Registered practitioners have completed a minimum of 3 years training in the Theory, Practice and Clinical Aspects of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture.  The training also incorporates orthodox Medical Sciences in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology of Disease, which ensures safe and effective practice.  Post graduate training also includes Clinical Placement and Continuous Professional Development on a yearly basis.

Practitioners must have Professional and Public Liability Insurance cover and are approved by VHI, Hibernian /Aviva, Laya Healthcare, HSE, Garda Medical and many other Insurance Companies.  Practitioners are bound by a strict Code of Ethics and Practice which is strictly enforced by the Acupuncture and Reflexology Associations.

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