Treatments
The Process
our appointment begins with time to talk through your health, symptoms and what you’d like support with. This allows me to build a clear picture of you , your journey and your body. I’ll then assess your pulse and observe your tongue – traditional diagnostic tools used in Chinese medicine to understand patterns of balance and imbalance.
When you’re comfortable on the treatment table, I’ll outline the focus of the session and place the acupuncture needles. The needles are extremely fine and carefully inserted. You may feel very little, or you might notice a brief sensation such as warmth, heaviness, tingling or a gentle ache. These sensations are normal and often indicate that Qi – the body’s vital energy – is responding to the treatment.
In your session
Each session is tailored to you, and the points selected are chosen to support the smooth movement of Qi and encourage the body’s natural ability to regulate and restore balance. Treatments are generally experienced as calming and supportive, rather than stimulating.
Once the needles are in place, you’ll have time to rest quietly while your body responds. Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation during this time, while others notice subtle physical or mental shifts.
Acupuncture is cumulative, with each session building on the previous one. It works best as a collaborative process, typically involving a series of treatments. We’ll agree on a plan and adjust it as needed.
Supplementary Techniques
Alongside Acupuncture, and with your consent, I may incorporate a range of complementary therapeutic techniques during the course of your treatments.
Every treatment is selected thoughtfully for your unique presentation and discussed with you beforehand. My aim is to combine evidence-informed care with personalised, holistic attention, so each session feels safe, effective, and supportive of your overall wellbeing.
Cupping
Cupping therapy uses glass cups to create gentle suction on the skin, increasing circulation, relieving muscle tension, and supporting lymphatic flow.
Traditionally, cupping moves Qi and blood, releases stagnation, and helps expel external pathogens. Temporary circular marks are a normal response and typically fade within a few days.
Modern research suggests cupping may improve microcirculation and reduce musculoskeletal pain.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha involves gently stroking the skin with a smooth-edged instrument to release soft tissue restriction and enhance surface circulation.
Traditionally, it promotes the smooth flow of Qi and blood, clears stagnation, and supports the body in early-stage illness. Temporary redness (sha) reflects increased perfusion and part of the therapeutic response.
Research shows Gua Sha can increase microcirculation and may support pain reduction.
Moxibustion (Moxa)
Moxibustion uses the warming properties of dried mugwort to gently heat acupuncture points and meridians.
It strengthens Yang Qi, dispels cold, and supports constitutional or chronic deficiencies. The gentle warmth nourishes the body, helping with fatigue, digestive weakness, menstrual concerns, and cold patterns.
Studies have explored moxibustion for pain, digestive health, and breech presentation support.
Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture combines traditional needling with a mild electrical current to provide consistent stimulation to specific points.
It supports pain modulation, muscle activation, and nerve regulation. From a traditional perspective, it strengthens Qi movement when stagnation is deeper or persistent.
Evidence supports its role in stimulating endorphin release and regulating pain pathways.
Auricular Acupuncture
Auricular acupuncture stimulates specific points on the ear corresponding to areas of the body.
It supports nervous system regulation, hormonal balance, sleep, and stress management. Traditionally, the ear reflects a microsystem of the whole body, allowing focused, efficient treatment.
Research explores auricular acupuncture in pain, anxiety, and addiction support.
Magnets
Small therapeutic magnets may be applied to acupuncture points between treatments to provide sustained, gentle stimulation.
They support ongoing Qi flow and maintain therapeutic momentum. Their discreet, non-invasive nature makes them a subtle, practical adjunct.
Evidence is mixed, though some studies suggest modest benefit for pain support.
TDP Lamp (Far Infrared Therapy)
The TDP lamp (Teding Diancibo Pu) delivers far-infrared heat via a mineral-coated plate, allowing deep warmth to penetrate muscles and joints.
It promotes circulation, reduces stiffness, and supports tissue repair. Traditionally, it warms the meridians, dispels cold, and strengthens Yang Qi. Its mineral plate produces a broader electromagnetic spectrum, enhancing therapeutic effect. Many patients find the warmth deeply soothing and restorative.
Research suggests far-infrared therapy may improve microcirculation, reduce pain, and support tissue recovery.
Therapeutic Breathwork
Breathwork is a guided practice using conscious breathing to regulate the nervous system, improve oxygenation, and support emotional and physical release.
Clinically, intentional breathing can influence heart rate variability, vagal tone, and stress hormone balance. Traditionally, the breath is inseparable from Qi; steady, nourished breathing helps Qi circulate freely and supports overall vitality. Breath awareness may be incorporated to deepen relaxation, release tension, and enhance Qi movement during treatment.
Emerging research shows breath regulation can improve autonomic balance, reduce anxiety, and enhance wellbeing.
A personalised approach
Not every session will include all of these techniques. My intention is always to create a treatment that feels considered, effective, and supportive, combining traditional wisdom with modern understanding to help your body and mind find balance.
“I cannot thank Lucy enough for all the help she has given me since I started having issues with Sciatica/Disc problems at the beginning of 2025. After the 1st session I felt a huge difference in my pain levels and each session since her treatment has helped me so much- she is so knowledgeable and always puts me at ease. I would’t go to anyone else and would highly recommend Lucy to anyone. She is so caring also and checks in to see how things are going.” – AT
Learn more about Acupuncture for General Health
Learn more about Acupuncture for Women’s Health
Learn more about Acupuncture for Reproductive Health
A Gentle Invitation
Chinese Medicine is safe, minimally invasive, and suitable for all ages and life stages. Whether you’re seeking relief from specific symptoms or looking to create more balance, energy, and resilience in daily life, acupuncture can offer a quiet and effective path forward.
Not sure if it’s right for you? I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation, no obligation, just a space to ask questions and talk things through.
A Gentle Invitation
Chinese Medicine is safe, minimally invasive, and suitable for all ages and life stages. Whether you’re seeking relief from specific symptoms or looking to create more balance, energy, and resilience in daily life, acupuncture can offer a quiet and effective path forward.
Not sure if it’s right for you? I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation, no obligation, just a space to ask questions and talk things through.