Acupuncture FAQs

Acupuncture is a time-honoured healing practice rooted in ancient Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote natural healing. This technique aims to restore balance and alleviate various health concerns.

Many are concerned about potential discomfort during acupuncture. Rest assured, the needles used are exceptionally thin, often compared to a human hair. Most patients report minimal to no pain, sometimes experiencing a slight tingling or warmth at the insertion points. The process is generally relaxing, and any sensations typically subside quickly.

Acupuncture operates on the principle of balancing the body’s vital energy, known as Qi. By stimulating specific points, it encourages the body’s natural healing processes, potentially influencing various physiological systems to improve health and well-being.

Acupuncture is versatile and can address a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, digestive issues, and more. It’s best to consult with a qualified acupuncturist to determine how acupuncture can support your specific health needs.

When performed by a licensed and trained professional, acupuncture is generally safe. The use of sterile, single-use needles and adherence to proper techniques minimize risks. It’s essential to ensure your practitioner is certified and follows appropriate safety protocols.

The number of treatments varies depending on the individual and the condition being addressed. Some may experience relief after a single session, while others might require a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. Typically, you will have a couple of sessions weekly to kick start the whole process, after that - treatment is usually then fanned out to greater intervals, once. month, once every six weeks etc. A developed a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. Long term patients usually come once per season for maintenance and prevention.

During a session, firstly you’ll typically lie comfortably as your pulse will be taken - the pulse gives us more information on how best to treat you. After this, acupuncture points will be marked up. Once marked, each point firstly usually requires the use of heating up a herb (called Moxa) on the point to help stimulate the energy prior to needling.

Once that has been carried out, the needling takes place. In this tradition (Five-Element acupuncture), the needles are not left in. The needle is placed on the skin, then slowly is inserted... The needle then travels down to the acupuncture point - the patient will feel a slight ache - at which point the needle is turned 180 degrees clockwise to strengthen the function of the point. The needle then come out of the patient and is disposed of.

In Five-Element acupuncture, about half a dozen points are usually chosen with the pulse read after each needle to measure the progress.

Let's hope so! We'd like to see the symptoms that were the main complaint subside after a suitable amount of treatment, plus other benefits where we notice the body working more efficiently. On the more 'negative' side - side effects are rare but may include mild soreness or slight bruising at the needle sites. These effects are usually short-lived.

It’s advisable to be well hydrated prior to and after a treatment, wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to acupuncture points. Arriving a few minutes early can help you begin your session in a relaxed state.

Yes, acupuncture often complements other forms of treatment. It’s important to inform your healthcare providers about all therapies you’re receiving to ensure coordinated and effective care.

Five-Element Acupuncture focuses on treating the individual’s body, mind, and spirit by addressing imbalances related to the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. In contrast, TCM Acupuncture emphasizes restoring the balance of yin and yang and the flow of Qi (energy) to treat physical symptoms and underlying health conditions.

Five-Element practitioners assess sensory cues such as colour, sound, odor, and emotion, alongside pulse diagnosis, to determine a patient’s elemental imbalance. TCM practitioners utilize tongue and pulse diagnosis, detailed questioning, and observation to identify patterns of disharmony within the body’s organ systems.

Five-Element Acupuncture is often considered more effective for emotional and psychological concerns due to its holistic approach, addressing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. TCM also considers emotional factors but primarily focuses on physical symptoms and organ imbalances.

Both styles use the same acupuncture points; however, the selection and combination of points differ based on their respective diagnostic frameworks and treatment goals. Five-Element Acupuncture may use fewer needles, focusing on specific points related to elemental imbalances, while TCM may use a broader range of points to address multiple symptoms.

Five-Element Acupuncture tailors treatments to balance the patient’s Five-Element make up. The needling is very different. In Five-Element acupuncture the needles are not left in! The needle is placed on the skin, slowly inserts, then continues down to the acupuncture point – where the patient will then feel a sensation similar to a dull ache. At the point, he practitioner stimulated the point by lightly turning the needle clockwise – then the needle come out immediately. TCM Acupuncture develops treatment plans aimed at restoring balance using techniques like acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and herbal medicine. The needling is very different to the Five-Element style as the needles are left in for 20 minute or so.

Both styles can effectively treat chronic conditions. TCM Acupuncture may be more focused on alleviating physical symptoms, while Five-Element Acupuncture addresses underlying constitutional imbalances, potentially offering a more holistic approach to chronic issues.

Yes, practitioners receive training specific to their chosen style. Some may train exclusively in one approach, while others pursue comprehensive education in both Five-Element and TCM Acupuncture to integrate techniques from each system. Johnny Childs is trained in both styles from attending The Acupuncture Academy (TAA), but only practices Five-Element acupuncture having apprenticed under Gerad Kite for many years.

Five-Element Acupuncture is rooted in Taoist philosophy, emphasizing harmony between the individual and nature, and focuses on treating the spirit and emotions. TCM is based on balancing yin and yang and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi to maintain health, concentrating more on physical aspects of well-being.

Yes, some practitioners integrate both styles to provide a more comprehensive treatment, addressing both the physical symptoms and the emotional or spiritual aspects of a patient’s health. At Kite Clinic, we only perform Five-Element.

Consider your specific health concerns and treatment goals. If you seek to address emotional or spiritual issues alongside physical symptoms, Five-Element Acupuncture may be suitable. For primarily physical ailments, TCM Acupuncture could be appropriate. Consulting with a practitioner experienced in both styles can help determine the best approach for your needs.

Acupuncture aims to restore balance within the body, improving overall health and well-being. By enhancing blood flow to reproductive organs and reducing stress, it creates a more favourable environment for conception. While scientific studies offer mixed results, many patients find acupuncture to be a valuable component of their fertility journey.

It’s advisable to start acupuncture treatment at least three months before attempting to conceive. This timeframe allows the body to adjust and respond to the treatment, optimizing reproductive health. However, starting at any point can still offer major benefits.

Typically, we recommend weekly for the first few weeks – to help kickstart the whole process and build a solid foundation for future treatments to ‘sit on’, so to speak. The exact frequency depends on individual circumstances, including health history and specific fertility challenges. We then typically fan treatment out to greater intervals, once every two weeks, every three weeks – to monthly sessions, usually prior to ovulation should you be trying naturally. Regular sessions over a period of three to four months are often suggested to achieve optimal results.

Yes, acupuncture complements other fertility treatments such as IVF or IUI. It can help alleviate side effects, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being during these procedures. We often collaborate with medical professionals to provide integrated care for our patients.

Acupuncture is considered safe during pregnancy when performed by a qualified practitioner. It can help manage symptoms like morning sickness, back pain, and stress. However, certain points should be avoided, so it’s crucial to inform your acupuncturist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles, which typically cause minimal discomfort. Patients often describe a tingling sensation or a feeling of warmth. Many find the experience relaxing and may even fall asleep during sessions.

A typical session lasts between 45 minutes to an hour. This includes time for consultation and for the treatment plan to be administered via the needles. The initial consultation may take longer to allow for a comprehensive assessment of your health and fertility goals.

Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as slight bruising or light headedness. These effects are typically short-lived. Our practitioners ensure that treatments are tailored to your specific needs, minimizing any potential adverse effects.

Five-Element Acupuncture focuses on treating the individual as a whole, addressing the root causes of imbalance rather than just symptoms. This personalized approach considers emotional and constitutional factors, aiming to restore harmony and promote self-healing.

Yes, acupuncture often complements other forms of treatment. It’s important to inform your healthcare providers about all therapies you’re receiving to ensure coordinated and effective care.

Acupuncture aims to balance the body’s energy, helping to improving blood flow to reproductive organs and reducing stress, thereby complementing IVF procedures.

It’s advisable to start acupuncture treatments approximately three months before commencing your IVF cycle to prepare your body and promote optimal reproductive health.

Typically, patients undergo weekly sessions leading up to IVF, with additional treatments before and after embryo transfer to support implantation.

Some studies suggest that acupuncture may enhance IVF success rates by improving uterine blood flow and reducing stress, though results can vary among individuals. Please see ‘Research and Fertility Statistics’ for more in-depth information on this. You can find this at the bottom of this page.

When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is safe and can be a supportive adjunct to IVF treatment.

Yes, acupuncture may alleviate certain side effects associated with IVF medications, such as bloating, nausea, and mood swings.

Acupuncture is typically considered complementary and should not interfere with IVF medications or treatments.

Seek a licensed acupuncturist with experience in fertility treatments, preferably one who specializes in supporting patients undergoing IVF and/or referred to be a fertility clinic/Doctor. Johnny (as do all Kite Clinic practitioners) works very closely with ‘The Evewell’ headed by Dr Colin Davis and ‘Fertility Plus, Headed by Dr Amit Shah. Both clinics are local to Johnny’s location.

Yes, acupuncture can support both partners by promoting overall well-being and addressing specific reproductive health concerns, potentially enhancing IVF outcomes.

The initial consultation with first treatment is £295. Follow-up treatments are £215.

Many private health insurers offer some cover for acupuncture, but this depends on your insurer and your policy. Please confirm with your insurer before booking. If asked, Johnny is a member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), membership number 963285.

Follow-up treatments last 45 minutes to an hour.

Appointments are available at Kite Clinic on Wimpole Street and at Liberty London on Regent Street, using the booking links on the contact page.