During the initial consultation a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will also check your tongue and pulses and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then used to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the consultation process, you will receive an acupuncture treatment.

There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or tuina.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.

Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.

• Write down and bring any questions you have. We are here to help you.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Do not eat large meals just before or after your visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out and alcohol for up to six hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of problems.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

At Innate Vitality we can treat a wide variety of health concerns.

The number of treatments depends on the condition and person being treated. As a general rule, initially the treatments will be fairly frequent, about once a week, but as the pain reduces and function increases you will need to attend less frequently. It is important to know that pain is just a symptom, being pain free does not mean that the healing process is complete. Therefore several treatments are required to treat the cause of the problem and not just the symptoms. Once the original complaint has resolved it is advisable to have regular maintenance treatments and commence a wellness plan to remain healthy and symptom free.

Osteopathic diagnosis and treatment involves both observation and palpation, therefore you will probably be asked to undress. A gown will be provided and your privacy preserved at all times.

No, generally osteopathy doesn’t hurt, however some techniques are more uncomfortable than others. If at any point you are in pain or uncomfortable with the treatment let your Osteopath know straight away

Everyone is unique and therefore respond differently. Most people feel a sense of lightness and relief after the initial treatment, it is not unusual to experience stiffness and discomfort as the day goes on. This usually only happens after your first one or two treatments. The discomfort may last for a couple of days and is usually easily controlled. Your osteopath will advise you on post-treatment self-help to minimise this reaction. If you are concerned about how things feel after a treatment, please get in touch.

Osteopathy can be helpful throughout all stages of pregnancy. It is important that you advise us if you are or think you may be in the early stages of pregnancy. The first trimester of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks) carries a naturally high risk of miscarriage. Osteopathy is a very safe and effective treatment for the aches, pains and discomfort of pregnancy and many women find it invaluable in the later stages when the pregnancy places tremendous strain on the body.

Acupuncture needles do not resemble injection needles in that they are not hollow and are much finer, usually the thickness of a hair. The sensation felt is often described as either a heavy feeling or a gentle tingle in the area. Acupuncture should not be a painful or unpleasant experience, in fact patients usually become so relaxed they often snooze during treatment, and feel relaxed and serene for the rest of the day.

When agreeing to have any treatment you automatically enter into a partnership with your practitioner. It’s important to take responsibility for your health and follow your practitioners advice for a speedy recovery, you’ll be advised on self care and home pain management. Appropriate exercises may be prescribed along with dietary and lifestyle changes

An appointment at our clinic is viewed as a commitment between the practitioner and patient. We respect your time and ask you to do the same for ours. We request 24 hours notice to cancel or change an appointment. Whist we understand that situations come up and emergencies happen, for changes or cancellations less than 24 hours in advance, you will be charged a full fee for your missed appointment. You can cancel an appointment by calling or texting on 07725 476499. Alternatively, email mandeep@innatevitality.co.uk.