Acupuncture is a powerful method of healing developed in China at least 2,000 years ago. Established as one of the most important components of Chinese medicine, it promotes natural healing and improved physical and emotional well-being. Today, acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points in the body by a variety of techniques. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves inserting very fine metallic needles into precise acupuncture points that are manipulated by the hands or electrical stimulation.

Because acupuncture needles are extremely fine and flexible, most people do not experience discomfort when they are inserted. When Qi has been influenced, a sensation may be felt such as a tingling, heaviness, or a slight flow of energy. The most common experience during treatment is a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

Acupuncture can be used to treat an enormous variety of conditions from sporting injuries to digestive upsets or even the common cold. Anyone from newborns to the elderly can benefit from a course of treatment. Acupuncture is a very safe and effective form of medicine with a history of many thousands of years. It can be used not only for the treatment of conditions or illnesses but also to help keep you well and prevent illness from taking hold.

Consulting any professional in the field of health and wellness should leave you with a clear idea of your prognosis and path toward wellness. During the initial consultation, we will discuss the nature of your problem, what has caused or contributed to the issue, and what we can expect from here. Generally speaking, you should expect to see some improvement within the first couple of treatments. Sometimes it helps to recognize that pain or dysfunction in the body may be the first tangible symptoms of a long process of your health being dissipated. Where I see signs of factors that may influence the speed of your recovery, I will explain them to you as clearly as possible.

Never! I belong to the NZ Register of Acupuncturists and have been approved by NZ Blood Service. If you also give blood regularly please make sure you receive your acupuncture treatment from an NZ Blood Service-approved practitioner. All the needles I use are sterile and single-use. They are disposed of immediately after treatment.

Energetic changes in the body will continue for some time after the needles have been removed so it is preferable to avoid any strenuous activity immediately after treatment. To avoid undoing the effects of the treatment it is also better not to consume any alcohol or recreational drugs.

Yes. If you have an ACC number for any injury suffered during the last year then your treatment can be subsidised by the ACC levies you pay in your tax and vehicle registration. ACC bases the number of treatments it subsidises for on the expected average rate of healing for other people with the same condition.

Most acupuncture practitioners will ask you to complete an information sheet on your first visit. The questions asked will cover basic information such as your name, address, and age, the reason for your visit, and how long the condition has been present. They will also ask about any medication you may be taking and whether or not you have had any surgery, even if it is not specifically related to the reason for your visit. 

You should also advise the practitioner of any of the following conditions:

• Pregnancy
• Bleeding disorders
• Diabetes
• Any form of cancer
• Hepatitis
• HIV/Aids
• Epilepsy or seizures
• Skin infections
• Heart conditions – especially if you have had a pacemaker inserted