Acupuncture is a healing practice rooted in Chinese medicine that has been used for over 3,000 years. It is based on the principle that good health depends on the smooth flow of Qi, or vital energy, through pathways in the body called channels or meridians. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to pain, illness, or emotional distress.
Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to healing, treating the whole person by restoring balance, stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and promoting physical and emotional well-being.
The process involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points along the channels. By regulating the flow of Qi, acupuncture supports recovery, relieves symptoms, and helps achieve harmony within the body and mind.
For more information, explore this brochure.
How Acupuncture Can Help?
Acupuncture is widely recognised as an effective therapy for various physical, emotional, and chronic health conditions.
Pain Management
Acupuncture is highly effective in relieving pain by stimulating the body's natural pain-relief mechanisms. Common conditions include:
- Back pain
- Migraines
- Arthritis
- Sports injuries
Emotional and Mental Well-Being
Acupuncture supports emotional balance by reducing:
- Stress and anxiety
- Symptoms of depression
- Fatigue
- It also promotes better sleep and relaxation.
Women's Health and Fertility
Acupuncture provides valuable support for:
- Fertility, including IVF treatments
- Menstrual irregularities
- Menopause
Other Health Benefits
Acupuncture can also aid in:
- Digestive health
- Respiratory conditions, such as asthma and allergies
- Recovery during cancer treatment, relieving side effects like nausea and fatigue
By addressing the root causes of imbalance, acupuncture enhances overall well-being. Patients often report increased energy, better sleep, and a deeper sense of relaxation and clarity.
Acupuncture on the NHS
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends acupuncture for managing chronic pain, migraines, and headaches. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) also supports acupuncture for conditions such as lower back pain and knee pain.
Under General Medical Council guidelines, GPs can refer patients to practitioners listed on a Professional Standards Authority (PSA) Accredited Register, such as the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC). This ensures patients receive safe and qualified care.
Evidence for Acupuncture
Recent research highlights the efficacy of acupuncture, particularly for chronic pain. In 2017, the National Institute for Health and Research published evidence confirming acupuncture is effective for some chronic pain conditions and is not a placebo.
The British Acupuncture Council provides fact sheets summarising research findings, offering accurate and unbiased information about acupuncture's benefits across a range of conditions.
Research Fact Sheets
For further details, explore the research fact sheets available through the BAcC:
Contact
One 2 One Clinic
| Monday | 12pm – 7pm |
| Tuesday | 9am – 6pm |
| Thursday | 9am – 5pm |
| Friday | Teaching Clinic |
Stratford Acupuncture
8 Sedgemoor Close
Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire
CV37 7RY