These are some of the questions I am most often asked about the treatment session itself or about what benefits to expect. If you have any other questions that are not answered here please feel free to call me on 01892 548879 or complete the Enquiry Form.

What should I wear?

Patients are asked to take off all except underwear. You will be covered with towels and your skin only exposed when necessary for massage or acupuncture. Women can wear a loose T-shirt or vest if they wish.

How many sessions will I need?

This is very difficult to answer as it depends on a number of factors. If you are basically fit and healthy then an acute problem may be resolved in one or two sessions. If you have a chronic condition that has built up over months or even years it is likely to take longer to get the results you want. Once you feel better it is good to come back for regular sessions to maintain the improvement.

How will I feel after the treatment session?

You may find that you feel quite tired after a treatment session so it is best to time your appointment so that you can go home and rest. It is not advisable to go out partying or undertake strenuous exercise straight afterwards!

Can I bring someone with me?

The clinic has a comfortable waiting area and you are welcome to bring a friend or relative with you if you wish.

Do you treat children?

Children and young people normally respond very quickly to shiatsu and acupuncture treatment. Children under the age of 16 must obtain parental consent before receiving acupuncture. Please ask for details.

Does it hurt?

Yin shiatsu and acupuncture are physical therapies. Shiatsu involves applying pressure to the body and you may experience some tenderness during the treatment session. This is due to the underlying tension in your muscles and should be regarded as a positive sign that this is being released. Any discomfort will be short-lived.

Japanese acupuncture uses very fine needles and although you will generally experience some sensation during treatment acupuncture is not painful. You may feel the needle being gently tapped into the point being treated and then a kind of shooting sensation (‘hibiki’ in Japanese) as the needle has the desired effect.

How long will any improvement last?

This depends on the nature of your injury or symptoms and also how much effort you put into maintaining your health. It may be necessary to make adjustments to your diet or lifestyle or to stretch regularly to keep in good condition. Once you are better it is a good idea to come for regular check up sessions to keep in top form.

I’m afraid of needles – can you treat me without using acupuncture?

Yin shiatsu is based on very similar principles to acupuncture and I can help you a lot without using needles. However it may take longer to get the results you want.

What qualifications do you have?

I hold Japanese national licenses in Acupuncture, Shiatsu and Moxibustion and have undertaken an 8 year apprenticeship in the theory and practice of Yin Shiatsu. I’ve also worked in a Japanese rehabilitation clinic. I’ve been practising in the UK since 1992 and have full professional indemnity insurance and am registered with the local authority. Details can be provided on request.

How long will the session last?

The first session will be 60 -75 minutes and part of this time will be spent discussing your medical history and finding out more about you and your symptoms. Subsequent sessions are 60-120 minutes depending on the nature of your problem and the treatment needed.

Can acupuncture help me lose weight?

Sorry, I don’t treat people who want to lose weight.

Can acupuncture help me to stop smoking?

Again, sorry, I do not do acupuncture to help people stop smoking

Can you treat me while I’m pregnant?

Yes! Please tell me if you are pregnant. My treatment can be very beneficial during pregnancy to help with aches and pains and keep you flexible. Many women also come to me for treatment after having Caesarian sections to help with the after-effects of the operation.

Can you help with infertility?

I have successfully treated several women wanting to conceive. It is important that you first rule out any medical problems, but regular treatment can improve your overall health and make conception more likely.