Renate Mohler Acupuncturist

• en
• de

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been practised in Eastern cultures for some 2,500 years. It is used to treat illness and maintain good health in a prophylactic manner. In the Western world, acupuncture is becoming increasingly accepted as a drug-free alternative to Western medicine for the treatment of common illnesses and conditions. Acupuncture is particularly effective in improving conditions caused or made worse by our modern, hectic lifestyle.

How does acupuncture work?

The ancient theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains that acupuncture works due to the vital energy ‘Qi’ and the balance between Yin and Yang. Qi flows in our body through channels referred to as meridians. In order for a person to feel well and live without illness, Qi needs to flow freely through the body’s meridians. The flow of Qi may however become disrupted or blocked in the course of a person’s life. In the West, common causes for such disruption may be emotional upset, physical trauma, a poor and irregular diet, overwork and a sedentary lifestyle, to mention but a few examples. If the Qi remains disrupted or blocked for a period of time, illness and pain may occur. One of the main differences between TCM and Western medicine is the holistic approach TCM follows to treat the root cause of the disease as opposed to the symptoms. Additionally TCM views every patient as an individual possessing their own inherited constitution; therefore different patients often receive different treatment for the same ailment or Western diagnosis. By inserting hair-thin disposable needles into different acupuncture points on the body, the acupuncturist will try to unblock the Qi stagnation and help it flow freely, thereby restoring the body’s equilibrium. Depending on the type of illness or pain, the acupuncture treatment may be complemented with other remedial methods such as cupping, moxibustion or gua sha. Another important part of TCM is diet and lifestyle advice. These two aspects are often also addressed along with acupuncture to increase the treatment’s effectiveness.

Acupuncture from a Western viewpoint

Scientists are increasingly studying the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating patients. Several studies have demonstrated that acupuncture has a measurable effect on the body’s ability to self-regulate (hormones, blood pressure, the immune system and brain activity to mention a few areas). The most favourable explanation among researchers is that the nervous system is activated when needles stimulate specific nerves and nerve endings (from an Eastern point of view this would be termed deqi). This stimulation creates a signal in the brain that prompts the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killers.

A Selection of Treatments & Packages

• Initial consultation (75 min)
• Single acupuncture session including potential Moxibustion, Cupping, Guasha and Auricular acupuncture (60 min)
• Facial Rejuvenation treatments are proposed as a package covering 12 treatment sessions.

Special Packages:

Female Fertility Programme (12 treatment sessions)

A course of 12 treatments (3 months) is recommended to prepare your body for conception and pregnancy. This course of treatment may be used as preparation for natural conception, or after miscarriages or together with IVF treatment.

Preparation for Labour (4 treatments)

The treatments would start from week 36 or 37 and are recommended for pregnant women planning to have a vaginal delivery. The aim of the treatments is to relax and prepare the woman for labour on a physical and emotional level, as well as supporting the ripening of the cervix and preparing the pelvis for delivery. The treatment will also be adapted to the woman’s and baby’s individual needs. Breech presentation treatment with moxa may start from week 34. This package includes acupressure handouts to ease labour pain, as well as the demonstration of acupressure techniques.

Research has demonstrated that pre-birth acupuncture increases the chances of a vaginal delivery with reduced labour time, and reduces the likelihood of medical interventions (Betts D, Lennox S. Acupuncture for pre-birth treatment: An observational study of its use in midwifery practice. Medical acupuncture 2006 May; 17(3):17-20).

Labour Induction (4 treatments)

Labour induction by acupuncture is listed by the World Health Organisation as an efficient method by which to induce labour. The aim of labour induction by acupuncture is not only to stimulate contractions, but also to ripen, soften and thin the cervix in order to initiate spontaneous labour. Acupuncture treatment may start when the woman is 2 days or more overdue.

* If you should deliver earlier than the 4 arranged treatments, the remaining treatments may be used after delivery.

FAQ

What does acupuncture feel like?

Most people find acupuncture relaxing and enjoy the effect it has on their mind and body. The needles used are very thin and the insertion is usually not felt. I only use disposable pre-sterilised high quality Japanese needles to ensure the smoothest possible insertion. Occasionally a short sting or tingling may be felt on insertion.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, acupuncture is safe if performed by a professionally trained acupuncturist. My membership of the BAcC and SBO-TCM assures you that I have extensive training in both Western and Chinese medicine, and that I comply with their strict membership rules. Bruising might occur as a result of acupuncture and some people may feel tired but relaxed after treatment. However these side-effects are only short lived, reference British Medical Journal in 2001 (1,2).

How many sessions will I need?

This will depend on the condition and your constitution. Some people may feel an improvement already after a few sessions, for others up to 6 sessions may be required. For chronic illness, monthly follow-up treatments may be recommended once the condition has improved. In the beginning I recommend attending sessions on a weekly basis.