Needle therapies
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a core therapy of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Very fine, single-use needles are placed at selected points on the body, chosen after a consultation about your health, history and goals.
- Body acupuncture
- Electro-acupuncture
- Auricular (ear) acupuncture
- Cosmetic (facial) acupuncture
What it involves
- Points are selected according to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and your individual presentation.
- Needles are sterile, single-use and much finer than injection needles. They usually stay in place for a period while you rest.
- Electro-acupuncture adds a gentle, adjustable electrical current between selected needles.
- Auricular acupuncture uses points on the outer ear. Cosmetic acupuncture uses fine needles on the face and is a non-invasive approach to supporting facial circulation and skin.
Your consultation
- A conversation about your main concern, medical history, medication, sleep, digestion, stress and lifestyle.
- A Traditional Chinese Medicine assessment, which may include observing the tongue and feeling the pulse.
- An explanation of the proposed approach and the number of sessions that may be useful, which Dr Patel reviews with you as you go.
What to expect
- Most people feel a brief prick, then a dull ache, tingling or warmth around the point. Many find the session relaxing.
- You may be asked to adjust clothing so points on the arms, legs, back or abdomen can be reached. Draping is used for comfort and privacy.
- Slight bruising or tiredness afterwards can happen and usually settles quickly.
Before you book: precautions
Please let Dr Patel know about the following. They do not always rule treatment out, but they help her keep you safe.
- Tell Dr Patel if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, as some points are avoided in pregnancy.
- Mention bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medication, and any implanted electrical device such as a pacemaker (relevant to electro-acupuncture).
- Eat a light meal beforehand, and let Dr Patel know if you feel faint around needles.
- Acupuncture complements but does not replace medical care. Keep taking prescribed medication unless your doctor advises otherwise.
This information is general. Your suitability for any treatment is assessed individually at your consultation.
Explore related points on the body map
A few of the points featured on the educational body map that relate to this therapy. Your own treatment points are always chosen individually.
Enquire about acupuncture
Your first visit (consultation and treatment) takes about 60–75 minutes. Message or call to arrange a time in Lenasia, or in Sunninghill by appointment.
Often considered alongside
Ready to talk it through?
Book a consultation in Lenasia, or in Sunninghill by appointment. Send a WhatsApp message or call, and the practice will reply to arrange a time.