Acupuncture is a system of healing which has been practiced in China and other eastern countries for thousands of years. Although often described as a means of pain relief, it is in fact used to treat people with a wide range of illnesses. According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependant on the body’s motivating energy – known as ‘qi’ - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a network of channels. As well as treating the specific symptoms it aims to improve the overall well being of the patient. It is common for a patient to comment, for instance, that as well as experiencing a reduction in symptoms, they feel more relaxed, sleep improves and their energy levels increase. When fine acupuncture needles are inserted they stimulate the body’s healing response and help to restore its natural balance.

What does it feel like?
Most people’s experience of needles is of those used in injections and blood tests, but acupuncture needles are quite different. They are extremely fine and flexible and usually the feeling is described as tingling or dull, rather than painful. During treatment, needles are left in place for about 20 minutes and the patient usually experiences a pleasant feeling of deep relaxation.

British Acupuncture Council
All three acupuncturists are members of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC). This means that you can be confident that they have had three years training, are covered by full Medical Malpractice and Public/Products Liability Insurance and are bound by Codes of Ethics, Practice and Disciplinary Procedures. More information can be found at www.acupuncture.org.uk

Most people come for acupuncture with specific symptoms; back pain, headaches, menopausal symptoms or sinusitis for example, but acupuncture is also useful as a preventative. A course of treatment before the hay fever season starts, before IVF treatment or during times of stress can be very beneficial. Ask the acupuncturists about your condition or health concerns and they will be happy to advise you if acupuncture would be suitable.

	Sue Keady started her work as a massage therapist in 1979 working with Eric Duncan in Preston. Sue later trained in acupuncture and healing and is able to offer a combination of treatment to suit the needs of the patient. Sue is also a qualified Tai Chi / Qi Kung teacher and teaches Qi exercises and relaxation to her patients to empower their own health. She also runs classes and workshops – please see the news page for dates and times.
	Carole Wilson qualified from the Northern College of Acupuncture in 1997. She adds tui na (Chinese massage techniques) to her treatment of musculo-skeletal conditions for greatest effect. As well as giving volunteer acupuncture sessions at Drugline, she is studying Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) which she finds has a positive impact on all areas of life.
	Catherine Swales also trained in acupuncture at the Northern College of Acupuncture in York and qualified in 1993. Since then she has gained a Diploma in Remedial Massage and likes to combine the two techniques during treatment. She is currently developing her Reiki as a hands on, deeply relaxing therapy and is also a volunteer giving acupuncture sessions to people affected by drug use in Preston at Drugline. Her massage courses at Alston College in Longridge are always popular.

Acupuncture is available Monday to Friday, with evening appointments on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Phone the clinic on 01772 456657 to discuss the treatment or to make an appointment.

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Towngate Clinic ... www.towngateclinic.co.uk
102 Towngate, Leyland, Lancashire PR25 2LR .... telephone 01772 456657