What is it?

Acupuncture is a gentle medical system that is used to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well being. It originated in China more than 3000 years ago and due to it's proven effectiveness has been embraced throughout the world.

Chinese Medicine seeks to treat the whole person. It involves the insertion of very fine, pre-sterilised, disposable needles at specific points on the body's surface to help restore health on a physical, psychological and emotional level.

Acupuncture can be used alone or in combination with Western Medicine or with other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) such as Herbal Medicine, Moxibustion (Heat Treatment), Qi Quong (Therapeutic Exercise) and Tuina (Chinese massage).

Most people find acupuncture painless, they describe the treatment as calming and relaxing. Many people find when they begin a course of acupuncture treatment they experience positive changes in the overall state of health. They may, for instance, find that they sleep better, feel more relaxed and have a more positive outlook.

How many treatments will you need?

Since each person is unique, the number of treatments required will vary. Chronic long term conditions can take longer to treat than acute conditions that have just occurred. If the patient is in general good health recovery may be quicker. Also, the frequency of treatment prescribed will have an impact. Initially, treatments may be administered close together and then become less frequent as the condition improves.

The adherence of the patient to the instructions provided from the acupuncturist can also influence the speed of the recovery. The practitioner will usually discuss the treatment programme with the patient at the session.

Occasionally, 24-48 hours after the treatment some people may experience slight mood changes as well as physiological changes such as alterations in bowel and bladder function. It is possible, in some cases, for symptoms to become temporarily worse. This usually indicates to the acupuncturist that the body is responding to treatment. If you have concerns, please bring them to our attention.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a well trained, conscientious practitioner. Pierce Hennessy has been practicing for 30 years, when he first qualified with a Licentiate and Diploma in Acupuncture. Pierce initially studied with the Acupuncture Foundation of Ireland (AFI) in Milltown, Dublin. As part of this course, Pierce spent three months in Colombo South General Hospital in Sri Lanka. He did many of his clinical hours there under the supervision of a very imminent professor. 

If you are pregnant, or trying to have a baby, it is important that you tell the acupuncturist so that they can modify the treatment, as acupuncture is used extensively for fertility and pregnancy issues.

Do not stop taking your prescribed medication without first reviewing it with your doctor(s).

Insurance

As well as having our own Professional and Public insurances, we are also approved by many of the approved Health Insurance providers in Ireland - Laya, VHI, HSF, Vivas