What other techniques might we use?
Acupuncture needles are at the centre of most treatments at Sefton Acupuncture, but we may also use other traditional techniques where appropriate.
We will always explain what we intend to do before treatment.
Moxibustion and heat therapy
Moxibustion, often shortened to moxa, is a traditional warming treatment using the dried herb mugwort.
The moxa is gently heated and held close to an acupuncture point, or may sometimes be used alongside an acupuncture needle, providing a gentle, penetrating warmth. You should feel warmth rather than burning, and the treatment is carefully monitored throughout.
TDP heat lamp
Heat may also be provided using a TDP lamp. This is a specialist heat lamp with a mineral-coated heating plate that produces gentle radiant warmth.
The lamp can be positioned over an area of the body during your treatment, providing a comfortable source of heat while you relax. Your comfort and safety are monitored throughout.
Cupping
Cupping is a traditional technique where suction cups are applied to the body.
A vacuum is created inside the cup so that it draws gently on the skin. The cups may be left in one position for a short time or moved across the skin.
Cupping can leave temporary circular marks or discolouration. We will explain this before treatment if we intend to use it.
Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture uses acupuncture needles in the usual way, with selected needles connected to a small device which provides a low-frequency electrical stimulation.
You may feel a gentle pulsing or tingling sensation.
Please tell us if you have a pacemaker or another electrical implant.
Massage
Massage or other hands-on techniques may occasionally be used alongside acupuncture.
As with all of the techniques used at Sefton Acupuncture, this will depend on your individual treatment and we will explain what we are doing.
Will all of these be used?
No. Most patients will not have every technique and many treatments involve acupuncture alone.
Your treatment is individual to you and we will explain anything we recommend.