Western medical acupuncture is a therapy involving the insertion of fine needles into the skin.  It is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture, using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and the principles of evidence-based medicine.

Acupuncture treatments are tailored to the individual and can vary from as little as one needle at one appointment to regular sessions with a dozen needles or more.  General effects often include a general sense of well-being, relaxation and improved sleep, alongside treating your specific complaint.  Side effects are minimal: possible minor bruising or bleeding, or feeling drowsy or faint.

Acupuncture can be beneficial in a wide range of conditions:

• For short term relief of some musculoskeletal conditions including neck pain, chronic neck pain, lower back pain and osteoarthritic knee pain.

• For short term relief of migraine and tension type headache, and TMJ/TMD pain (temporomandibular or jaw joint pain).

• Research has shown that there may be benefits to women’s health including treatment for painful periods, fertility issues and IVF, and menopausal conditions such as hot flushes and night sweats.

Dr Filshie has carried out a randomised controlled trial of the use of acupuncture in the treatment of overactive bladder.

Click here for more details.

She has published guidelines for the use of acupuncture in treating patients with symptoms relating to cancer and cancer treatment. Click here for more details.