Acupuncture is a system of healing which has been practised in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years.

Its focus is on improving the overall wellbeing of the patient and the improvement of specific symptoms.

According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body’s motivating energy – known as Qi (pronounced “chee”) moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of meridians (channels) beneath the skin.

Qi consists of equal and opposite qualities – Yin and Yang – and when these become unbalanced, illness may result. By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy, an acupuncturist can balance the flow of Qi and stimulate the body’s own healing response thus helping to restore its natural balance.

The flow of Qi can be disturbed by a number of factors.

• emotional states such as anxiety stress anger, fear, grief and sadness
• poor nutrition and inappropriate diet
• Weather conditions
• Hereditary and constitutional factors
• Infections
• Poisons
• Traumas

The principal aim of the style of acupuncture used at thepractice is to treat the whole person allowing recovery in the equilibrium between the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual.

“Illnesses may be identical but the people suffering from them are different…”
xu dachun (1693-1771)

who is acupuncture suitable for?

 Acupuncture is suitable for a wide range of conditions. Some of the more commonly treated are listed below:

Some patients seek acupuncture as a preventative measure to strengthen their constitution or because they feel unwell in themselves without being “ill” in the Western sense.

It can be used alongside conventional medicine in the treatment of both acute and chronic disease. In some cases treatment allows a reduction of medication, although this is always done with agreement and advice from patient’s GP/consultant.

Treatment is helpful for those trying to overcome addictions such as those related to smoking, alcohol, food or drugs.

what to expect

Your first session will be longer (between 1½ and 2 hours) and will allow your acupuncturist to get a complete picture of your physical, emotional and spiritual background.

Your acupuncturist will use pre-sterilised, single use, disposable surgical steel needles.

Generally two sensations occur during a treatment. During the initial insertion of the needle most people feel little or no sensation. The second sensation after the needle is in is usually a feeling of tingling numbness, heaviness, a dull ache or warmth. Sometimes there are sensations felt in other parts of the body when the needles are in place.

Everyone is different. Depending on your individual situation you might notice improvement starting after the first treatment, or it may take longer. A course of treatment is commonly five to ten sessions – although this may vary depending on individual circumstances and the condition being treated. This will be discussed with your practitioner during your first visit.

what do I need to wear?

Loose fitting clothing is best; this will allow the acupuncturist to have easy access to your limbs. Most points used tend to be located somewhere from the elbow to the fingertips and/or from the knee to the ends of the toes. Any points in other areas will be discussed as treatment progresses.

about the practitioners

James Unsworth (BAcC)

James trained at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Reading, where he now teaches as a practical skills and pastoral teacher.

He has worked as an acupuncturist in a number of roles, from within the NHS treating substance misuse, numerous homeless projects and private practice work.

He is also involved in voluntary work abroad. These side projects include treating Tibetans living in South India, and more recently running a clinic in Sri Lanka with Acupuncture Sans Frontiers.

His work is based in the UK where he works in a detox service in Plymouth as well as a private practice at thepractice, Totnes.

Elaine Leach (BAcC)

Elaine also trained at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Reading. She works predominantly in private practice, but also to a lesser degree within the NHS, treating substance misuse.

She has also trained in Chinese Patent Herbal Remedies, which in certain situations she may recommend alongside a course of acupuncture.

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what will it cost?

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 what to expect after treatment?

As with any therapy, the response to acupuncture can differ from one person to another. The benefits of acupuncture frequently include more than just relief from a particular condition. Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels, and an enhanced sense of overall well-being.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact James or Elaine at thepractice.