Everything You Need to Know Before Receiving Acupuncture in Edinburgh 

How do I prepare for an acupuncture appointment?

• Avoid drinking alcohol on the day of the appointment
• Eat something within an hour of the appointment, such as a light meal or snack
• Avoid drinking caffeine at least two hours before the appointment
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Notate any questions or concerns you have
• After the treatment, rest and drink extra water to enhance the treatment

 

How many acupuncture treatments will you need?

 

Each individual is unique, and as such, we all respond to treatment differently. However, Most people need between 6 and 12 acupuncture sessions to experience lasting results. In Chinese medicine, consistency is key, especially in the early stages. After each session, symptoms may ease temporarily before returning, so weekly acupuncture treatments help us stay one step ahead. Rather than starting from scratch each time, we can build momentum and work deeper into the root of the issue.

 

Research shows that the benefits of a full course of acupuncture can last for up to a year. That’s why it’s so important to commit to regular sessions especially in the first 6 to 12 weeks even if you don’t feel major changes straight away. Most people begin to notice meaningful shifts between sessions 6 and 8. 

 

If you have any questions about acupuncture in Edinburgh or how Chinese medicine might support you, I offer a free 10-minute phone consultation. Click here to book. 

Where are acupuncture needles placed?

The placement of acupuncture needles during treatment depends on the condition being treated and the individual's specific symptoms. The exact locations and number of needles used are determined by the diagnosis and treatment plan. Acupuncture points are situated along meridians throughout the body, allowing practitioners to insert needles in various locations. Often, needles may be placed in areas distant from the site of injury to influence the body's overall energy flow and achieve therapeutic effects.

 

Does acupuncture hurt?

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The acupuncture needles I use are incredibly thin—much finer than the needles used for injections. While you might feel a slight tugging sensation or a dull ache, it’s not painful. In fact, many of my clients are surprised at how gentle it is, often asking, "Is that it?" or "I didn’t even feel the needles come out!" My approach to needling is very gentle, ensuring you feel at ease and comfortable throughout the treatment, with little to no discomfort.

What can acupuncture help with?

The National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recognise acupuncture as an effective treatment for a wide variety of medical issues.

The British Acupuncture Council have stated that acupuncture could provide support for conditions such as acne, allergic rhinitis, angina & heart disease, anxiety, asthma, back pain, bells palsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, dementia, dentistry issues, depression, diabetes type 2, dizziness and vertigo, dysmenorrhoea, eczema & psoriasis, endometriosis, facial pain, fibromyalgia, frozen shoulder, gout, headaches, hypertension, incontinence, infertility, insomnia, neck pain, osteoarthritis of the knee, post-traumatic stress disorder and stroke. However, the research on the benefits of acupuncture on other conditions is continuously being explored. Check out my blog as I keep up to date with all the latest research!

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How does acupuncture work? 

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Click here to read a blog on how acupuncture works

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Does acupuncture work? 

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In recent years, research into acupuncture has grown significantly, offering a wealth of evidence about its benefits for various conditions. To explore the latest findings and see how acupuncture could help with your specific health concerns, visit Evidence Based Acupuncture.

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Where can I find acupuncture near me? 

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​If you're looking for acupuncture nearby, Advanced Healing Arts offers expert acupuncture treatments tailored to your needs. Located at The Galleon Club in Edinburgh and Zen Lifestyle, my clinic provides a calm and professional environment to address a range of physical and emotional conditions. Whether you're new to acupuncture or seeking ongoing care, I am here to help you on your wellness journey.