Medical Acupuncture

What Is Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture is a treatment that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific areas of the body. It is commonly used as part of an approach to managing pain and certain musculoskeletal conditions.

Western medical acupuncture is informed by contemporary knowledge of anatomy, physiology and the nervous system. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different perspective, considering patterns of symptoms and the wider relationship between different aspects of health.

At Marylebone House, my approach draws on Western medical acupuncture while also being informed by my studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This allows me to consider your symptoms within a broader clinical picture while keeping treatment appropriate to my current professional qualifications.

How Does It Work?

Your appointment begins with a consultation and assessment of your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals.

Fine, single-use sterile needles are inserted at carefully selected points. The needles may remain in place for a short period while you rest comfortably. Treatment is adapted to your individual needs, and I will explain what to expect before we begin.

Medical acupuncture may be booked as a standalone appointment or incorporated into an osteopathy treatment when clinically appropriate and agreed with you.

Acupuncture is not combined with massage treatments at Marylebone House.

Benefits

• Support for managing certain types of pain

• An additional treatment option for musculoskeletal discomfort

• Support for some persistent or recurring pain conditions

• An individualised approach based on clinical assessment

• An option that may complement osteopathic treatment

• Treatment adapted to your symptoms and medical history

Who Is It For?

Medical acupuncture may be suitable for people experiencing musculoskeletal pain, muscle tension or certain persistent pain conditions.

It may also be considered as part of a wider approach to managing chronic pain, depending on the underlying condition and your individual circumstances.

Not every type of pain responds to acupuncture, and treatment recommendations are based on your assessment, current evidence and medical history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does medical acupuncture hurt?

The needles are much finer than those used for injections. You may feel a brief prick, tingling, dull ache or heaviness when a needle is inserted, but treatment is generally well tolerated.

Is medical acupuncture safe?

When performed by an appropriately trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is generally considered safe. Temporary soreness, minor bleeding, bruising or light-headedness can occur. I will review your medical history and discuss any relevant precautions before treatment.

Can I book acupuncture without osteopathy?

Yes. Medical acupuncture is available as a standalone treatment. It may also be included within an osteopathy appointment when appropriate, following assessment and with your consent.

Can acupuncture be combined with massage?

No. At Marylebone House, medical acupuncture is offered separately or as part of an osteopathy appointment. It is not incorporated into massage treatments.