This ancient form of medicine has found a sure place in the modern world now that many thousands of clinical trials have verified its effectiveness and that both the World Health Organisation and the UK's Department of Health recognise its value.

Acupuncture has evolved from its roots thousands of years ago to take its place in the UKs primary health care system of the 21st century. Although clinically sophisticated, the central concept is very simple: the body, mind and emotions are interconnected by a flow of energy which runs smoothly throughout the body. This energy can be disturbed and blocked in a number of ways, leading to a person feeling illness or pain. Acupuncture supports the body's ability to self heal by adjusting this flow of energy.

Treatment methods are able to help unravel patterns of illness by choosing combinations of acupuncture points each with therapeutic actions. These are chosen following an in-depth consultation and are modified throughout the course of treatment as symptoms improve. Acupuncture treats the whole person, not just the symptom.

Hair fine needles are placed at specific trigger points below the skin and left in place for up to half an hour. Sometimes gentle heat or electrical stimulation is added. Most find the experience very calming. Generally people experience a pleasant sense of relaxation as your relaxing or pain relieving hormones start to take effect.