Rivendell Acupuncture
A typical first treatment involves fine needles being inserted through the skin and left in position for up to 20 minutes. The number of needles varies but may be only two or three. This first treatment session will usually last up to an hour. Subsequent sessions will be shorter as the initial assessment and treatment plan have been completed.
On initial insertion you may feel a slight sharpness only, sometimes you may feel very little on insertion as the needles are very fine.
During treatment the practitioner will often choose to stimulate the needles by gently rotating them in the tissue this helps to stimulate the point and increase the effectiveness of the treatment. At this point you may feel an aching/tightness around the needle for a short time.
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During the treatment you may feel:
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Warmth or “fullness” of the area or limb
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Pins and needles/numbness
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Tension around the needle
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Sometimes you will have no sensation of the needle at all.
What information will my acupuncturist need?
You will be assessed, as an individual, with a full medical history and
relevant examination before your treatment plan is drawn up.
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Apart from the usual medical details, it is important that you let
your practitioner know:
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If you have ever experienced a fit, faint or funny turn
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If you have diabetes
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If you are or could be pregnant
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If you have recently had a course of chemotherapy
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If you have a pacemaker or any other electrical implants
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If you have a bleeding disorder
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If you are taking anti-coagulants or any other medication
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If you have damaged heart valves or have any other particular
risk of infection
Can I refuse the acupuncture treatment?
Your consent will be obtained prior to your first treatment beginning.
You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time.
How long will my treatment last?
What does acupuncture feel like?
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally very safe. Serious side effects are very rare (less than 1 in 10,000 treatments).
Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used.
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You should be aware that:
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Drowsiness occurs after treatment in a small number of people, and,
if affected, you are advised not to drive (1%) -
Minor bleeding or bruising occurs after acupuncture (3%)
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Pain during treatment can occur (1%)
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Symptoms can get worse after treatment. You should tell your
acupuncturist about this, but it is usually a good sign (3%) -
Fainting can occur in certain people, particularly at the first treatment (0.3%)
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Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) is extremely rare (<0.0002%)
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Broken/stuck needles rarely occur (0.1%)
