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Pam Machin - LicAc MBAcC ITEC
Acupuncture
I became fascinated by acupuncture in 1985 after receiving a successful course of treatment myself. This led me to study at the British College of Acupuncture where I graduated with Honours in 1989. I have now been in practice for seventeen years.
I derive great satisfaction from helping people to improve their health naturally. I allow plenty of time for appointments so that I can form a good relationship with my patients and they can benefit from a calm, unhurried atmosphere.
After graduating I gained an ITEC diploma in Therapeutic Massage and recently qualified from an accredited Healing course. At times I may incorporate these approaches within a treatment session. I am fully insured as a Member of the British Acupuncture Council and I take part in continuing professional development.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of an ancient system of healing known as Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has been practised in China for thousands of years,
It is based on the belief that our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy, known as Qi, moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels beneath the skin. The Qi can be upset by a number of factors such as emotional states like anxiety, stress, anger, fear or grief, poor nutrition, infections or trauma. Or we might have constitutional imbalances.
The acupuncturist decides exactly what imbalances a patient has by asking a number of questions and observing the patient's pulse and tongue.
A few fine, sterile needles are then inserted (fairly painlessly) into points along channels where the Qi flows. They are retained for around 15 minutes during which a deep feeling of relaxation is usually experienced and a slight tingling feeling is felt from the needles. This stimulates the body's own healing response by balancing the flow of Qi.
A course of treatment of around 5 to 10 weekly sessions is often necessary, depending on the severity of the problem. The cost of these may be reimbursed by health insurance such as Westfield if your doctor is agreeable with you receiving acupuncture.
Who has Acupuncture?
Many people come for acupuncture for help with specific symptoms or conditions. These might include anxiety states, arthritis, back pain, depression, facial paralysis, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, infertility, irritable bowel syndrome, digestive problems, painful or irregular periods, headaches and migraine, painful joints or skin conditions. It can also be useful in pregnancy, for instance in encouraging labour when a baby is overdue.
Some people have acupuncture as a preventive measure, or for helping to overcome addictions such as smoking, alcohol or drugs.