Q:    What does an acupuncture treatment involve?
RH:   You are likely to have an number of needles, typically between four and ten, but possibly only one, inserted into the skin from a half a centimetre to several centimetres in depth. They are traditionally left in for 10-30 minutes, but some practitioners needle for only a few seconds. Acupuncture needles are very thin and do not hurt in the same way as an injection. Needles may be stimulated by manual twirling or a small electric current (electro-acupuncture). Though the treatment may be completely painless, some acupuncturists attempt to produce a sensation called 'de Qi', which is a heaviness, soreness or heat around the needle, believed to be a sign that an acupuncture point has been correctly needled. Traditional acupuncturists may use additional techniques, such as moxibustion, the burning of the mugwort herb attached to the handle of the needles.

Q:   Which illnesses/conditions/injuries can it best help?
RH: There is now good scientific evidence indicating acupunctures effectiveness in relieving pain in arthritis (of the knees or hip, for example), as well as back pain. It is also useful in many other painful conditions, including migraine, period pain and sports injuries. In addition, acupuncture can effectively relieve the nausea associated with surgery, pregnancy and chemotherapy, and is used in those suffering from bowel disorders, urinary problems, asthma, hay fever, stress and addictions. It may also aid in recovery after a stroke, and is employed to turn 'breech' babies the right way round in the womb.

Q:   Are there any risks?
RH: Before embarking on acupuncture, it is imperative to have a diagnosis of your problem made by a doctor to ensure that acupuncture is the most appropriate treatment for you. Not all conditions are suitable for treatment with acupuncture. Acupuncture is remarkably safe when used by a properly qualified practitioner. However, occasional side effects include increase in pain (usually only temporary), bruising, dizziness and (very rarely) skin infections or even a punctured lung. To minimize the risk of infection, acupuncture should only be given using sterile disposable needles. Special precautions need to be taken in pregnancy.

Q:   What qualifications/experience/membership should be looked for in an acupuncture practitioner?
RH:  Seek treatment from either a medical doctor or a well-qualified acupuncturist. All members of The British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS) are doctors who are competent to practice acupuncture safely and effectively. A lay acupuncturist should have the letters MCAcC after their name, indicating that they have undergone a thorough training in traditional acupuncture, anatomy and physiology, and are recognised by the British Acupuncture Council. (NB Look for their Certificate)

Q:   How much will a session cost?
RH:  If you are lucky enough to have a GP who practises acupuncture, you may be able to receive acupuncture treatment free. I offer my patients acupuncture treatment free on the NHS when it appears to be the best treatment option for their particular problem. Otherwise, typical costs are £20-£40 for each treatment, though many acupuncturists do offer a sliding scale of fees for those on low incomes.

Q:   Where do I find out more?
RH: The British Medical Acupuncture Society was founded in 1980 as an association of medical practitioners interested in acupuncture. The BMAS opposes unfounded therapeutic claims and recommends the practice of acupuncture by healthcare professionals. They support clinical research into when and how acupuncture works, and offer doctors comprehensive training in acupuncture, incorporating all the methods described above. For more information about acupuncture or to find a medically qualified acupuncturist, contact: The BMAS, BMAS House, 3 Winnington Court, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 1AQ. Tel: 01606 786782 Fax: 01606 786783 Email: Admin@medical-acupuncture.org.uk