1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation. 1 Bannerman RH. 1979 "Acupuncture: the World Health Organisation view." World Health Organisation.

The evidence from research
There is an increasing core of evidence that acupuncture works, is cost-effective and safe. Hugh MacPherson, one of our practitioners also works part-time at the University of York in acupuncture research. In collaboration with Sheffield University, and funded by the NHS, he has undertaken a large scale randomised controlled trial evaluating acupuncture for low back pain. He has also recently completed a study on acupuncture safety. Both these studies have been published in the British Medical Journal.

WHAT IS IT LIKE HAVING ACUPUNCTURE?

First, the diagnosis
Acupuncture practitioners look at disease in a unique way. By taking into account the whole of your life, from your physical and emotional state through to your lifestyle, an acupuncturist can draw on a more complete picture of your condition. The acupuncturist will make observations of your tongue and pulse and undertake a physical examination if appropriate. As a result, it is possible to understand the deeper pattern of disharmony underlying the specific symptoms.

Agreeing a plan of treatment
On the basis of the diagnosis, and taking into account such factors as age, duration of condition, lifestyle, etc., the acupuncturist will propose a plan of treatment. The plan will include an estimate of how many treatments are required and how frequent the visits should be. If your problem cannot be treated by acupuncture this will be discussed at this stage. Wherever possible, acupuncturists work in co-operation with your own doctor, and will always refer if necessary.

How many treatments and how often?
A course of treatment averages around 10 sessions. For a severe illness of long duration, 20 or even a 50 treatments may be necessary. For recent or acute conditions maybe as few as two or three may be appropriate. As a guide, treatments are usually necessary once or twice a week. The initial consultation and treatment can last up to an hour and a half. Subsequent treatments last up to an hour.

Receiving a treatment
When you have agreed a plan of treatment, the treatment itself can begin. Very fine needles are inserted at key locations. Most people find the needles hardly hurt on insertion. You will usually feel a mild ache or tingling sensation when the needles are stimulated. The needles stay in for a short time, twenty to thirty minutes or so, while you rest. Afterwards you may feel very relaxed or tired. For the remainder of the day, it is best not to undertake any stressful or difficult activities.

What about infection?
The City of York has approved the health, hygiene and safety arrangements and registered the Clinic. Only disposable needles are used, i.e. needles are used once and once only before being disposed of.

Prevention
Acupuncture can make an important contribution to increasing your energy, vitality, and zest for life. Acupuncturists are trained to recognise disease often long before you are aware of any problem. Treatment at this early stage can prevent a more serious condition developing.

The British Acupuncture Council
In the UK the acupuncture profession is regulated by the British Acupuncture Council. Members require a minimum of three years training, must observe strict codes of ethics and practice and are covered by professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

Other acupuncture sites of interest: Northern College of Acupuncture
                                                  Foundation for Traditional Chinese Medicine