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  |  Natural Health  |  Therapies  |  Acupuncture and acupressure
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Some surprising facts from the Colonel

Acupuncture and acupressure

continued from page 2
What is it good for?
As part of a complete medical system, acupuncture is used for a wide range of conditions. Acupuncture is one of the most popular complementary therapies in the UK, and even conventional medicine accepts its benefits. About 86 per cent of NHS pain clinics offer acupuncture, and almost half of GPs arrange treatment for patients. Last year the British Medical Association supported its availability on the NHS after reviewing trials that showed acupuncture was effective for back pain, nausea and vomiting, migraine and dental pain.

It is also widely used for tension headaches, neck pain, osteoarthritis, weight loss, giving up smoking and other addictions, stroke rehabilitation, high blood pressure, menstrual and menopausal problems, eczema, digestive disorders and stress relief.

What to watch out for
Always consult a qualified practitioner and ensure he or she uses disposable needles.Tell your practitioner if you are pregnant or on any conventional medication. Avoid alcohol, large meals, hot baths or showers and strenuous exercise immediately before or after treatment. Take care if driving or working immediately after acupuncture, as you may feel tired and lack concentration.

How much does it cost?
Sessions can be 30 to 90 minutes depending on how long the needles are left in for. The initial consultation is usually the longest. You should expect some improvement after five sessions. Fees vary according to where you live, but as a rough guide expect to pay £50-£80 for your first consultation, and £25-£70 for subsequent ones.

How can I find it?
The following have a list of practitioners:

British Acupuncture Council
63 Jeddo Road, London W12 9HQ
Tel 020 8735 0400
www.acupuncture.org.uk

British Medical Acupuncture Society
(Represents doctors who have trained in acupuncture techniques)
12 Marbury House, Higher Whitley, Wallington, Cheshire WA4 4QW
Tel 01925 730727
www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk

Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists
Mere Complementary Practice, Castle Street, Mere, Wiltshire BA12 6JE
Tel 01747 861151
www.aacp.uk.com

Society of Auricular Acupuncturists
Nurstead Lodge, Nurstead Church Lane, Meopham, Kent DA13 9AD
Tel 01474 813902
www.auricularacupuncture.org.uk

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Created: 01/11/2001  Updated: 26/01/2007

This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child, please consult your family's health provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. For the full Disclaimer, click here.
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