Question 1

What is your approach to acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

My acupuncture approach is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine principles, including Five Element theory, alongside contemporary clinical practice.

I am trained to work in a focused, acupuncture-led way when appropriate, using acupuncture points as a primary treatment approach. This allows for a more energetic and traditional style of treatment, guided by pattern recognition and holistic assessment.

Where beneficial, I also integrate acupuncture with osteopathic principles. This combined approach allows me to support both the energetic and structural aspects of the body, depending on the needs of the individual.

This flexibility means treatment can be:
purely acupuncture-led
integrated with manual and structural techniques
or adapted between both approaches over time
My aim is always to tailor treatment to the individual rather than apply a single fixed method.

I am comfortable working across both traditional and evidence-informed frameworks, and adapt my approach depending on what will best support the individual in front of me.

Question 2

What’s the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is a practice rooted in Classical Chinese Medicine and is based on restoring the body’s natural energy flow (Qi) through specific points along energy meridians. Dry needling, on the other hand, is often used by physiotherapists and other manual therapists and focuses on releasing muscle tension by inserting needles into trigger points. At Virtue Healthcare, we offer Classical Acupuncture, which can addresses both physical symptoms and underlying energetic imbalances.

For more detailed information about the differences between acupuncture and dry needling, please visit our blog post.

Question 3

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Weekly Acupuncture Sessions are typical, to begin with,  reducing in frequency as your body responds. 
Typically, noticeable improvements occur within five to six sessions.  Occasionally just one or two Acupuncture Sessions are sufficient.  However, a great deal depends not only on the seriousness of the  problems someone has in combination with the length of time they have  had them but also on the person's constitutional strength. A healthy  person can have a severe illness and recover quickly, whereas an  unhealthy person can have a relatively minor condition that can last for  years.  Considering the treatment expectations, sufficient review periods will  be set aside to look at progress. 
Please feel free to complete an MYMOP  questionnaire to measure the outcomes of the Acupuncture Treatment.

To support our patients who require ongoing care, Virtue Healthcare offers discounted treatment packages of 3 or 5 sessions. These packages are designed for those who anticipate needing multiple treatments and provide a cost-effective way to commit to your healing journey

Question 4

Is acupuncture painful?

Accepted Answer

No, acupuncture is generally not painful. The needles used in acupuncture are much finer than hypodermic needles, so most people feel very little during insertion. Some patients may experience a slight tingling or a mild dull ache when the acupuncture point is stimulated, but this sensation typically subsides quickly, leaving most patients feeling relaxed.

Question 5

Is acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, acupuncture is very safe when performed by a properly trained and qualified practitioner. At Virtue Healthcare, we use single-use, sterile needles, and our practitioners are trained to the highest standards. The risk of adverse effects is minimal, especially compared to many medications or invasive procedures.

Question 6

Are the needles used in acupuncture sterile?

Accepted Answer

Yes, at Virtue Healthcare, we prioritise patient safety. We only use single-use, sterile needles for acupuncture treatments. All needles are disposed of after each session to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety. Our acupuncturists are trained to the highest level to ensure your treatment is both safe and effective.

For additional information, please visit our blog post Eco-friendly Acupuncture

Question 7

Should my doctor know that I am planning to have acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you are on prescribed medication, we recommend informing your doctor that you plan to have acupuncture. However, do not stop taking your medication without consulting your GP. It’s also essential to inform your acupuncturist about any medications or supplements you are currently taking. At Virtue Healthcare, we are trained to recognise serious underlying health conditions. If necessary, we will refer you to your GP.

Question 8

Can acupuncture help with depression?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture may offer a complementary approach to managing depression. While antidepressants are essential for many individuals, their limitations highlight the need for alternative strategies. Acupuncture, rooted in traditional practices, represents a promising holistic option for those looking to enhance their mental well-being alongside conventional methods.

To learn more about the Potential of Acupuncture as a Non-Pharmacological Approach for Depression, please visit our blog post.

Question 9

What eco-friendly practices does Virtue Healthcare use in acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

At Virtue Healthcare, we prioritise sustainability in our acupuncture treatments. We use high-grade surgical stainless steel needles, which have a lower environmental impact compared to copper needles that can cause pollution during production. Our needles are sterilised using gamma ray sterilisation, a safe and eco-friendly method that reduces reliance on harmful substances like ethylene oxide.

Additionally, our packaging is 100% recyclable and significantly lighter than standard options, while we also utilise bamboo guide tubes, which are fully biodegradable and sourced from responsibly managed forests.

To learn more about our eco-friendly practices and commitment to sustainability, please visit our blog post.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your approach to acupuncture?

What’s the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

Is acupuncture painful?

Is acupuncture safe?

Are the needles used in acupuncture sterile?

Should my doctor know that I am planning to have acupuncture?

Can acupuncture help with depression?

What eco-friendly practices does Virtue Healthcare use in acupuncture?

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