Frequently asked questions

Acupuncture can support a wide range of health concerns. Many people come for help with:

• Pain (back, joint, arthritis, headaches)
• Stress, anxiety, and better sleep
• Fertility and women’s health
• Digestive disturbances
• Fatigue and low energy
• Neurological Issues

Every treatment is tailored to the individual and their unique needs.

Acupuncture is a traditional therapeutic practice that involves the insertion of very fine needles at specific points on the body. Historically, it developed within a framework that described balance and regulation in the body.

From a modern perspective, research suggests that acupuncture works through physiological regulatory mechanisms, particularly involving the nervous system. Needle stimulation can influence communication between the body and internal organs through somato‑visceral reflexes, helping to modulate pain, muscle tension, circulation, and autonomic nervous system activity.

Yes, when performed by a licensed practitioner.  Single-use and sterile needles will be used adhere to the highest safety standards.

You don’t need prior experience with acupuncture.
Many people come feeling unsure, sensitive, or overwhelmed. Sessions are adapted carefully and explained clearly.

Most people are surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels. The needles are very fine, much thinner than those used for injections. You may feel a slight pinch, tingle, or warmth that quickly passes. Many patients find the treatment deeply relaxing.

Occasionally, a very small drop of blood or a light bruise may appear where a needle was inserted. This is harmless and usually clears quickly. Such marks are uncommon and, when they do occur, they are minor compared to the overall benefits of treatment.

If you take blood‑thinning medication or have concerns about bruising, please let us know so we can take extra care during your treatment.

If you are unsure, an initial consultation can help determine whether acupuncture is suitable for your needs. Treatment plans are discussed openly, with clear expectations and attention to safety.

It depends on your individual situation. Some people notice changes within 3-5 sessions, while others may need a longer course for lasting results. At your first appointment, we’ll discuss your goals and create a personalised plan.Every body is different. Some feel improvement after one treatment, while others need regular sessions over weeks to reset deeper imbalances.

For long‑standing or chronic conditions, treatment is usually more regular at the beginning to support gradual regulation and stability. Some research and clinical experience suggest that twice‑weekly sessions during the initial phase (for example, the first few weeks or up to 10 sessions) may provide a stronger basis for reviewing progress.

As symptoms change, the frequency is adjusted. Maintenance or longer‑term support is usually spaced further apart and tailored to individual needs.

Treatment plans are reviewed regularly and are always discussed with you.

Eat a light meal before, wear loose clothing, and rest afterward to let your body integrate the treatment.

Yes, home acupuncture visits are available within the St Albans area. Treatments are provided in the comfort of your own home and may be particularly helpful for people with:

Disabilities or reduced mobility
Childcare responsibilities
A preference for receiving treatment at home
The aim of this service is to reduce barriers and improve access to care.

📍 For addresses more than 15 miles from St Albans, an additional travel charge may apply. Please contact us for discussion and agreement in advance.

Acupuncture, including scalp acupuncture, may be used as part of a supportive approach for neurological conditions. Treatment focuses on supporting function and wellbeing through stimulating the brain cortex.

Western medicine often focuses on identifying a specific disease and treating it with medication or surgery.
Classical acupuncture takes a more natural and holistic approach, looking at your whole body, emotions, lifestyle, and environment. Treatments are tailored to your individual constitution and pattern of imbalance to support homeostasis. 

Yes. Acupuncture is commonly used alongside conventional medical care. It does not replace medical treatment and you should continue to follow advice from your GP or specialist.

A medical diagnosis identifies a condition based on tests, imaging, and recognised disease categories. Pattern differentiation looks at how symptoms present together, how they change over time, and how the body responds to factors such as stress, rest, temperature, and activity. It is used to understand different levels of functional imbalance or strain within the body, rather than to identify a specific disease.

The two approaches can be used alongside each other.

Yes. Many people visit when they feel “not quite right” - tired, stressed, low energy, or with vague issues that Western medicine might not label.
TCM focuses on supporting the body’s natural ability to heal and restore balance, even if no clear disease has been identified.

Appointments cancelled with less than 72 hours’ notice cannot be refunded. This policy allows us to reserve time for each patient and ensures the smooth running of the clinic. If you need to reschedule, please let us know as early as possible so we can offer the slot to another patient in need.