Acupuncture at Tunbridge Wells Hospital

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment that began in traditional East Asian medicine over 2,000 years ago. Modern medical research shows that by inserting needles into specific points on the body, acupuncture stimulates nerves and triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. This can help treat a variety of conditions and symptoms, particularly when other treatments haven’t been effective.

What can acupuncture help with?

People commonly use acupuncture for symptoms that haven’t improved with standard care, including:

• Migraine and tension-type headaches.
• Osteoarthritis.
• Joint pain.
• Jaw pain (TMJ) and some types of neck or shoulder pain.
• Lower back pain with or without sciatica.
• Some respiratory and gynaecological symptoms.
• Treatment-related symptoms such as fatigue, dry mouth (xerostomia), hot flushes, nausea, and peripheral neuropathy.

Results vary from person to person. Your clinician will advise whether acupuncture is suitable for you and how it can be integrated into your current treatment plan.

What happens during acupuncture?

Your healthcare professional will review your symptoms, medical history, medications (especially blood thinners), pregnancy status, and any implants (e.g., pacemaker). You may be asked to remove or loosen clothing so the skin over selected points can be accessed. The skin is cleaned before any needles are placed.

During a session, a trained healthcare professional gently inserts very fine, single-use needles into specific points on your body. You might feel a brief pinch or dull ache, tingling, heaviness, or a warm sensation. Most people find it comfortable after the first few seconds.

Typically, 5–20 needles are used. They may be gently stimulated by hand or with a small device. Needles are usually left in place for 15–30 minutes while you rest.

After the needles are removed, it is common to feel relaxed, slightly drowsy, or light-headed for a short time. Mild bruising or soreness at a needle site can occur and usually settles quickly. You can return to normal activities. Aim to stay hydrated; avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol for the rest of the day if you feel tired.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a qualified professional. Mild side effects, such as temporary soreness or light bruising, may occur.

Do not have acupuncture, and speak to your specialist team urgently, if you have:

• Unexplained bleeding or easy bruising.
• A rash or suspected skin infection at the proposed needle sites.
• Any signs of a general infection (e.g. fever).

Always tell your clinician if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood-thinning medicines, are pregnant, or have a pacemaker or implanted medical device.