Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese belief that illness results when the life force, or Qi, is not free-flowing. An acupuncturist places fine needles in the skin along energy meridians with the intent to promote the free flow of Qi. Scientist believe that acupuncture works as the needles stimulate nerve fibres and that this causes the production of beneficial body chemicals such as opioids and oxytocin.
An acupuncture treatment should help to relieve the effects of everyday stresses and leave you feeling revitalised, more positive, relaxed and balanced. In addition, there is evidence that acupuncture is beneficial for specific ailments including tension and migraine headaches, chronic jaw, neck and low back pain, osteoarthritis of the knee and overactive bladder syndrome.

What to expect from an acupuncture session

After a brief health discussion, the acupuncturist will insert fine needles in to the skin at specific point along the energy meridians. The needles used are both sterile and extremely thin. The sensation you will feel when a needle is inserted is often described as a tingling or dull ache. Sometimes the needle will be rotated slightly until you feel a heavy or distended feeling indicating the arrival of Qi. Needles may be inserted and immediately removed, or may be left in place for thirty minutes or more, depending on the effect required. During treatment, patients commonly experience a pleasant feeling of relaxation.

Practitioners

For more information about our therapies, we would encourage you to contact The Edinburgh Centre of Nutrition and Therapy on 0131 229 1077 or email us on ecnt@ecnt.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you at The Edinburgh Centre of Nutrition and Therapy, 11 Home Street, Tollcross, Edinburgh, EH3 9JR