Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is generally very safe when administered by a qualified practitioner. Serious side effects are very rare - less than one per 10,000 treatments.

Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used by your practitioner.

Do I need to make an appointment?

Yes, I am currently available at Ripon Chiropractic Clinic on Mondays and Thursdays by appointment. Please contact me by phone or email to make an appointment.

What can I expect when I come for acupuncture?

You will be asked about the condition(s) you wish to seek treatment for as well as your medical history, general health and lifestyle. Your pulse will be taken and your tongue may also be examined.

All of this information is very important in order for your practitioner to make a diagnosis and formulate a prescription. A treatment plan will be discussed with you, including how many treatments you might require in order to resolve/improve your condition, and may also include suggestions about dietary changes. The Chinese do not draw any distinction between food and medicine, and utilising the energetics of food can complement and boost the work your acupuncturist does with a needle.

How can I prepare for treatment?

No special preparation is necessary prior to your appointment, however, treatment on an empty stomach is to be avoided.

Please ensure you have eaten a light meal or snack before attending your appointment.

Wearing loose/comfortable clothing is recommended.

Is there anything my practitioner needs to know?

Apart from the usual medical details it is important to let your acupuncturist know:

• If you are either pregnant or trying to conceive;
• If you have ever experienced any fits, fainting or funny turns;
• If you have a bleeding disorder;
• If you are taking any anti-coagulants or any other medication;
• If you are diabetic;
• If you have a pacemaker or any other electrical implants;
• If you have damaged heart valves or have any other particular risk of infection e.g. cellulitis.
• If there are any particular risks that apply in your case, your practitioner will discuss these with you.

Does acupuncture have side effects?

For most patients, acupuncture is a relaxing and restful experience. You need to be aware that:

• Drowsiness can occur. If affected you are advised not to drive;
• Minor bleeding or bruising can occur after treatment;
• Symptoms can occasionally get worse after a treatment. You should tell your practitioner about this but don't worry, it's usually a good sign!

You are advised to avoid alcohol for 24 hours after treatment and to drink plenty of water.

If you have any concerns about a response to treatment, please speak to your practitioner.

Can I still give blood?

Please be aware that if you are, or are considering becoming a blood donor, the NHS Blood Donation Service will not allow you to give blood if you have had acupuncture which was not administered on the NHS within the last 4 months. This is because acupuncture is an unregulated profession and the NHS consider that there may be a risk of your blood being contaminated by a blood-borne virus as a result of treatment.

Please be assured that your practitioner has been trained to an extremely high standard of hygiene and infection control, and standard practice yields absolutely no possibility of cross-contamination whatsoever. Nonetheless, you will not be able to give blood for 4 months after the date of your last acupuncture treatment.

Respect

Your wishes and beliefs will always be respected by your practitioner, this includes the right to make lifestyle changes at your own pace, and your right to dignity and privacy. You have the right to say no to any part of your proposed treatment at any time.

Confidentiality

Everything you tell your practitioner is kept in the utmost confidence, exactly as it would be if you were visiting your GP. This is part of the British Acupuncture Council's Code of Practice. There are only two exceptions to this rule, which are:

• If you have an undiagnosed Notifiable Infectious Disease;
• Your practitioner has reason to believe that you may be of danger to yourself and/or others.

*PLEASE NOTE that in both cases your practitioner may inform your GP.

Withdrawing the offer of treatment

Please note that if your condition is such that, in your practitioners professional judgement, they are not qualified to treat, or that your condition or overall needs are unsuited to treatment with acupuncture, your practitioner may refer you to another acupuncturist or healthcare professional and decline to continue your treatment. These decisions are not taken lightly and you are asked to respect your practitioners' judgement if this happens.