During your first acupuncture treatment, we will go through an in depth consultation form which includes your current symptoms, overall health and medical history. This information helps tailor the most effective treatment for you. After the consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions regarding the treatment. Charlotte will then examine your tongue and pulse taking as this is important diagnostic aspect in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help tailor the treatment further. Sterile single use needles will be inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. Once the needles are in, they will be left for around 25-30mins. During this time it gives you the space to relax and sleep. During this time most people tend to feel relaxed, calm or in a meditative state. After the treatment Charlotte may provide tailored post session care. Depending on your condition, Charlotte may recommend a series of sessions to achieve optimal results. Dietary and lifestyles adjustments may be recommended to help support your overall well-being. If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact Charlotte.

Stay hydrated and have a light meal or snack before the treatment to help prevent any potential dizziness or light-headedness after the treatment. Please avoid any caffeine, alcohol or drugs before your treatment. Wear loose fitted comfortable clothing as it’ll be easier to access acupuncture points and you’ll be most comfortable to relax. Feel free to contact Charlotte prior to treatment, if you have any health conditions or concerns you may have.

The recommended number of acupuncture sessions can vary depending on the individuals specific health condition and how the individual responds to the acupuncture treatment. In some cases, people may notice a difference after one or two treatments, however some people may require additional sessions for chronic or complex cases. As a general guideline, I recommend between four-five sessions at least depending on the individuals condition with sessions scheduled close together, such as weekly or bi-weekly. After the first two or three treatments the frequency of the sessions may be adjusted based on the individuals progress.

The simple answer is no! You may feel a slight tingling sensation when the needles are inserted or you may feel a dull ache, the majority of the time it is not painful. In some cases, however the individual may be sensitive depending on where the needles may be inserted such as the face, foot or where you are in your menstrual cycle, but generally, it is not painful. If you are anxious or apprehensive about the needles please let Charlotte know, she has had many clients afraid of needles but saw the benefits from the acupuncture treatments.

After the treatment you can carry on with your daily routine, I would recommend to take it easy and not do anything high intensity i.e. run or heavy workout as most people tend to feel relaxed, tired and sometimes "spaced out" after the treatment.