Exeter Osteopaths - Treatments - Acupuncture

Acupuncture @ Exeter Osteopaths

Acupuncture is an ancient system of healing developed over thousands of years as part of traditional oriental medicine. It has evolved into a system of medicine that restores and maintains health by the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points just beneath the body surface. These points are in very specific locations and lie on channels of energy.

During the first consultation, the practitioner determines by careful questioning the nature of the disharmony. This is done by taking details of the symptoms, past medical history, family history, lifestyle and diet. The tongue and the pulse and sometimes the abdomen are also examined. What the practitioner is looking for is not symptoms in isolation, but rather a pattern into which is woven a total picture of the patient.

Each person is treated as an individual, therefore even if two people have the same kind of symptoms the treatment they receive may be different as the underlying cause of the problem may not be the same. Also the rate of change can vary between different people as their own bodies healing ability may vary. You are monitored at every consultation, and your treatment is modified regularly as your condition changes and improves.

Usually, a feeling of peace and relaxation comes during acupuncture treatment and you should be fine to travel home alone afterwards. If you are in any doubt you could take a friend with you on your first visit.

Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a therapy from Japan, which like acupuncture stimulates and balances the body’s own energy, by applying gentle pressure to the energy channels and reflex areas on the surface of the body. Shiatsu helps relieve stress, muscular tensions, strengthens areas of weakness and regulates the function of the internal organs, including the immune system. It can also help you become more aware of physical and emotional tensions and what to do about them.

During a treatment, the pressure is given through clothes using palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows and sometimes knees. The whole body is worked on and included are some stretches to increase flexibility of the joints. Most people find the pressure relaxing yet invigorating and often report an improvement in posture and circulation as well as increased levels of energy. Many have found they develop an inner sense of relaxation and well being.

It is important to wear something loose fitting to give a full range of movement. Treatment on a regular basis reduces the effects of stress, tension and relieves many disorders such as back pain, postural imbalances, stiffness, headaches, poor circulation, menstrual disorders, digestive problems, respiratory problems and general fatigue as well as many other conditions. It has a calming and stabilising effect on the body as a whole and can help prevent the onset of disease.

Acupuncture and Shiatsu are separate treatments but they can also be incorporated together.

If you would like to make an appointment with one of our experienced, highly qualified therapists, please call 01392 428 141.