Your Questions, Answered

  • Most people are surprised by how comfortable it is, as the needles are extremely fine. You may feel a brief tingling, dull ache or warmth as the needle is placed, but this usually settles within a few seconds. Many patients find treatment deeply relaxing.

  • This depends on your condition, how long you’ve had it, and your individual response to treatment.

    As a general guide:

    • Recent or acute pain: 2–4 sessions

    • Long-standing or persistent pain: 4–8 sessions or more

    Your treatment plan will be discussed during your initial consultation and reviewed as you progress.

  • Acupuncture is suitable for most adults and older teenagers (typically 16 years and over).

    Before treatment, you’ll complete a full medical history so we can ensure acupuncture is safe and appropriate for you. If you’re pregnant, have certain medical conditions or take particular medications, your treatment may need to be adapted.

  • Yes. Most people are able to drive home immediately after treatment.

    Occasionally, people may feel very relaxed or slightly light-headed for a short time afterwards. If this happens, we recommend sitting for a few minutes before leaving until you feel completely comfortable.

  • Usually, yes.

    Many people taking blood-thinning medication can safely receive acupuncture, although there may be a slightly increased chance of minor bruising.

    If you’re unsure whether acupuncture is appropriate for you please get in contact and we can discuss your needs further.

  • Yes, light activity is absolutely fine.

    If you’ve had treatment for a painful muscle or injury, it’s generally advised to avoid very intense exercise for the rest of the day to allow your body time to respond to treatment.

    Most people can return to their normal routine the following day.

  • How long is the appointment?

    • Initial consultation: 45 minutes

    • Follow-up treatment: 30 minutes

    • Extended treatment: 60 minutes (where appropriate)

    Your first appointment includes a detailed assessment, discussion of your symptoms and your first treatment.

  • No. You don’t need a referral from your GP, dentist or any other healthcare professional. You can book directly at any time.

    However, I regularly work as part of a collaborative approach to patient care from referring dentists, GPs, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals.

    If you’re currently receiving treatment elsewhere, acupuncture can often be safely integrated into your overall treatment plan. If you have any questions please get in touch and/or discuss referal options with your current medical professional.

  • Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your neck, shoulders and upper back, as these areas are commonly treated.

    For women, a vest or tank top is ideal. Men may be asked to remove their shirt if treatment of the neck, shoulders or upper back is required.

    Your comfort and privacy are always respected, and only the area being treated will be exposed.

  • Yes.

    All needles are single-use, sterile and disposable, and are safely discarded after each treatment.

  • Most people experience no significant side effects.

    Occasionally you may notice:

    • Mild aching

    • Small bruises

    • Temporary tiredness

    • A brief increase in symptoms before improvement

    These effects are usually mild and settle within a day or two.

  • When carried out by a trained healthcare professional using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture has an excellent safety record.

  • Yes. It’s best to have a light meal or snack beforehand and stay well hydrated. We don’t recommend attending on a completely empty stomach.

  • We focus on musculoskeletal pain, including:

    • TMJ pain and jaw clenching (bruxism)

    • Neck pain

    • Shoulder pain

    • Upper back pain

    • Tension headaches

    • Facial pain

    • Muscle tightness and sports-related pain

  • Some people notice improvement straight away, while others experience gradual changes over the following 24–72 hours. It’s also normal to feel pleasantly relaxed or slightly tired after treatment.

  • At Pain Relief Acupuncture

    ✓ GDC registered dental care professional

    ✓ British Dental Acupuncture Society trained

    ✓ Over 8 years of clinical patient care experience

    ✓ Special interest in TMJ disorders, jaw clenching and head & neck pain

    ✓ Evidence-informed treatment tailored to your individual needs

    ✓ Additional training in clinical myofascial release, including intraoral techniques for the muscles inside the mouth and around the jaw