FAQs

BAcC members have an extensive training in acupuncture (to undergraduate degree level) and in biomedical sciences appropriate to the practice of acupuncture in the UK. As well as being covered by full Medical Malpractice and Public/ Products Liability Insurance, BAcC members are bound by codes of professional conduct and safe practice.

This depends on whether you have specific symptoms or whether you wish to use acupuncture as a method of health maintenance. You should contact one or more of the practitioners in your area who will discuss your condition and answer specific questions.

BAcC members use single-use pre-sterilised disposable needles, which are disposed of immediately after use. The BAcC Code of Safe Practice, drawn up in consultation with experts in the field of skin piercing, lays down stringent standards which all BAcC members are required to follow. The rules also extend to the hygiene and sterilisation of other equipment.

The severity of imbalance, how long it has been there and whether or not anything in the person’s lifestyle is interfering with the progress of healing will all affect the duration and frequency of treatment.  Initially most treatments will be weekly and then gradually spaced out until only a periodical ‘preventative’ treatment is needed.

You should try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse. You should also avoid alcohol and food or drinks which colour your tongue, such as coffee, immediately prior to treatment.

Acupuncture needles bear no resemblance to hypodermic needles as they are much finer. It is nothing like having an injection or a blood test. When an acupuncture needle is inserted occasionally a brief sting may be felt followed by a slight ache or pulling sensation. The length of time a needle is left in situ varies from a few seconds or up to 30 minutes depending upon the nature of the condition.

Yes, without question.

Yes, acupuncture can be given at any time during a pregnancy and is commonly used to aid pregnancy, treat morning sickness, muscular skeletal problems during pregnancy etc. However, if you are trying for a baby, or are pregnant then please do inform me as this will make a difference to the way in which I will treat you?

All fully qualified acupuncturists will hold a Licentiate Diploma in Acupuncture or a BA degree or BSc (Hons) degree in acupuncture and normally this will be indicated after the name in the form of an abbreviation. By having the qualification you can be assured that that person has studied and graduated from a recognised fully accredited teaching institution.

Many private health care schemes include acupuncture as part of their cover though it is advisable for you to check with the organisation with whom you have cover before commencing acupuncture treatment.