ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE IN BONDI JUNCTION
Experience the Healing Power of Acupuncture in Bondi Junction
Holistic therapies designed to restore balance and well-being
Our Mission
Welcome to Kintsugi Therapies, your premier destination for acupuncture services & Chinese medicine in Bondi Junction, NSW, Sydney.
As an experienced and skilled practitioner, I’m dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being through the ancient practice of acupuncture.
About Our Acupuncture Therapy - Explore Acupuncture in Bondi Junction: Balancing Mind and Body
Acupuncture is a time-honored practice and art, rooted in the wisdom of experienced practitioners who have refined it over centuries.
It’s a holistic approach that connects our health with our environment, ourselves, and our relationships to the world around us.
At Kintsugi Therapies in Bondi Junction, our acupuncture treatments are designed to balance and harmonize your mind and body, helping you feel your best.
We go beyond just providing treatments; we are dedicated to motivating and educating you about health and wellness, tailoring our approach to meet your unique needs.
When you are healthier and happier, it creates a positive ripple effect in our broader community, contributing to a better, healthier place for everyone.
Key Benefits of Acupuncture
Pain relief & management
Stress Reduction
Reducing Inflammation
Assists injury & surgery recovery
Enhanced physical health
Better sleep quality
Improved mental well-being
Increased energy levels
Boosted Immune System
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow (Qi) and promote natural healing.
Studies have found that acupuncture points line up with areas rich in nerve endings, and when needles are inserted, they can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin. These chemicals help manage pain and improve your mood and regulate our various body systems.
Brain imaging scans have shown that acupuncture can inhibit specific areas of the brain related to pain processing and activate neurochemicals that play a role in healing. This blend of ancient practice and modern science highlights just how effective acupuncture can be in promoting overall health and well-being
Kintsugi Therapies: Your Path to Holistic Wellness
At Kintsugi Therapies, we’re dedicated to guiding you on your journey to holistic well-being. Our premier destination in Bondi Junction, Sydney, offers a sanctuary where ancient wisdom meets modern healing techniques. Led by our experienced practitioner, Shane, we combine the art of acupuncture with complementary therapies to restore balance and vitality in your life.
Our Services: Embark on a transformative experience with our comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your unique needs. From traditional Chinese acupuncture to specialized treatments addressing chronic pain, stress reduction, improved sleep, digestive health support, and more, each session is crafted to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.
Practitioner’s Qualifications: Shane brings over a decade of expertise to every session. With a deep understanding of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, coupled with a compassionate approach, he ensures that each treatment is personalized to address your specific concerns. Rest assured, you’re in capable hands committed to your well-being.
Clinic’s Philosophy: At Kintsugi Therapies, we believe in the inherent connection between mind, body, and environment. Our holistic philosophy recognizes that true healing occurs when these elements are in harmony. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, we empower you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Holistic Approach & Individualized Care: We’re more than just a clinic—we’re your partners in wellness. Our holistic approach goes beyond symptom management to address the root cause of your health concerns. Through personalized consultations and tailored treatment plans, we guide you towards sustainable wellness practices that resonate with your lifestyle.
Your Path to Wellness Starts Here: Experience the profound benefits of holistic healing at Kintsugi Therapies. Whether you seek relief from pain, stress reduction, improved sleep, or enhanced vitality, our dedicated we’re here to support you every step of the way. Embrace the art of healing and rediscover the joy of living life to its fullest potential.
Schedule Your Appointment Today: Embark on your journey to holistic wellness with Kintsugi Therapies. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.
The Benefits of Acupuncture Bondi Junction
Pain Relief
Holistic Pain Management Services Acupuncture Bondi Junction.
Acupuncture has been shown to be highly effective for chronic pain conditions, providing relief from issues such as osteoarthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, neck pain & back pain. Stubborn conditions such as frozen shoulder, sciatica, golfers and tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis as well as post sporting and surgery pain all regularly respond well to acupuncture support.
For pain relief issues Chinese herbal medicine, Remedial massage, Cupping Therapy and/or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Check out more information on our Acupuncture for Chronic Pain page.
Stress Reduction
Stress Less, Find Calmness and Balance with Acupuncture Therapy in Bondi Junction
Acupuncture is a powerful tool for stress reduction, offering a natural and holistic approach to calming the mind and body.
By targeting specific points on the body, acupuncture helps to regulate the nervous system, releasing tension and promoting relaxation.
This process triggers the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that combat stress, reducing anxiety levels and fostering a sense of well-being.
Regular acupuncture sessions can help manage the physiological effects of stress, such as high blood pressure and muscle tension, while also improving mental clarity and emotional stability. For stress reduction issues Chinese herbal medicine, Remedial Massage or Cupping Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Improved Sleep
Discover Deep, Restful Sleep with Acupuncture Wellness in Bondi Junction
Regular acupuncture sessions can enhance the quality of sleep and reduce insomnia episodes making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Many clients report improved sleep quality and sleep hygiene or healthy sleeping habits after acupuncture treatments. For sleep issues Chinese herbal medicine is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Check out more information on our Acupuncture for Insomnia page.
Digestive Health Support
Find Relief from Digestive Issues using Acupuncture sessions in Bondi Junction
Acupuncture offers significant support for digestive health by targeting specific points that influence the gastrointestinal system. This ancient practice can help regulate digestive function, alleviate symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux (GERD), and bloating. By stimulating these points, acupuncture enhances the flow of energy (Qi) and improves blood circulation to the digestive organs, promoting efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation and stress, both of which can negatively impact digestive health. For digestive issues Chinese herbal medicine and/or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Enhanced Immune Function
Optimize your Immune Function with Acupuncture Treatments in Bondi Junction
Acupuncture can play a crucial role in enhancing immune function, helping your body to fend off illnesses more effectively. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, this therapy boosts the production of immune cells and improves their circulation throughout the body. This heightened immune response can help prevent common colds, flu, and other infections. Additionally, acupuncture reduces stress, which is known to weaken the immune system, thereby providing a dual benefit. For enhanced immune function Chinese herbal medicine , Cupping Therapy and /or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Allergy Relief
Alleviate Allergies Naturally using Acupuncture holistic care in Bondi Junction
Acupuncture offers a comprehensive approach to relieving allergy symptoms by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body’s immune response. During an acupuncture session, fine needles are strategically inserted into specific points along meridians related to the immune system and respiratory function. These needles stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, helping to regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure. Acupuncture also helps to strengthen the body’s overall resistance to allergens, making it less susceptible to future allergic reactions.
Research has shown that acupuncture can be particularly effective for treating allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, as well as other allergic conditions such as asthma and eczema. By targeting both the symptoms and the underlying causes of allergies, acupuncture offers long-term relief without the side effects associated with medications.
Regular treatments may help reduce the severity and frequency of allergy symptoms, offering a natural alternative to medication. For enhanced immune function Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy and/or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Improved Circulation
Supporting Cardiovascular Health with Acupuncture services in Bondi Junction
Acupuncture is celebrated for its capacity to boost circulation throughout the body, fostering overall health and vitality.
By targeting specific acupuncture points, this ancient practice encourages vasodilation, improving blood flow and enhancing the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.
Additionally, acupuncture aids in the removal of metabolic waste products and toxins, facilitating optimal circulatory function. Improved circulation not only supports cardiovascular health but also accelerates the healing process by promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
Whether addressing chronic conditions like hypertension and peripheral artery disease or simply promoting relaxation and vitality, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to optimizing circulation. For improved blood circulation Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy and/or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Hormonal Balance
Address Hormonal Imbalances using Acupuncture solutions in Bondi Junction.
Acupuncture is increasingly recognized for its ability to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
Gentle stimulation of acupuncture points associated with the endocrine system prompts the body to release endorphins and other neurotransmitters, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for addressing the production and release of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones. This targeted stimulation encourages the body to self-regulate and restore harmony to hormonal levels, alleviating symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, and infertility.
Furthermore, acupuncture treatments promote the release of endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters, which not only help manage stress but also influence hormonal activity. Acupuncture can also improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs, enhancing their function and supporting fertility.
Regular acupuncture sessions, many clients experience significant improvements in hormonal balance, leading to greater vitality, emotional stability, and overall well-being. For improved hormonal health Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy and/or Moxibustion is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Improving Respiratory Health
Breathe Easier with Respiratory Treatment Acupuncture Bondi Junction
Acupuncture provides a holistic approach to improving respiratory health by addressing underlying imbalances and promoting optimal lung function.
Acupuncture is particularly effective in treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By using the channel network of acupuncture including the lung channel we help reduce inflammation, clear congestion, and strengthen the immune system, making it easier to breathe and reducing the frequency and severity of respiratory symptoms.
By looking at the seasonal changes and lifestyle choices we guide clients through awareness of seasonal clothing, internal environments and medicinal seasonal foods for benefiting the respiratory and immune systems. For respiratory health Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy, Moxibustion and /or Chinese Dietary Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Enhanced Mental Clarity
Cultivating Clear Thinking with Holistic Acupuncture Therapy Bondi Junction
Acupuncture has emerged as a powerful ally in enhancing mental clarity and cognitive function.
Stimulating specific acupuncture points we aim to improve the flow of energy throughout the body, including the brain. By promoting optimal energy flow, acupuncture helps clear mental fog, sharpen focus, and enhance concentration. Moreover, acupuncture sessions often induce a profound sense of relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety levels that can cloud mental clarity. Additionally, the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters during acupuncture treatments further contributes to a heightened state of mental well-being and alertness. Clients at Kintsugi Therapies Bondi Junction frequently report feeling more mentally sharp and energized following acupuncture sessions. For mental health Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy, Moxibustion, Remedial massage, and /or Chinese Dietary Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Check out more information on our Acupuncture for Anxiety page.
Alleviating Inflammation
Harnessing the Power of Acupuncture for Inflammation relief Bondi Junction.
Acupuncture has gained recognition for its remarkable ability to alleviate inflammation within the body. This ancient practice involves the strategic insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points, stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Through this process, acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, acupuncture helps regulate the production of cytokines, molecules that play a crucial role in the inflammatory response. By modulating the body’s immune and inflammatory pathways, acupuncture promotes a significant reduction in inflammation levels, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with inflammatory conditions.
This holistic approach to inflammation management addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes, leading to long-lasting relief and improved overall well-being. Individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic pain syndromes can benefit greatly from acupuncture treatments. At Kintsugi Therapies in Bondi Junction, our skilled acupuncturists tailor treatments to address inflammation, providing personalized care and effective relief for our clients. For assisting in inflammation relief Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy, Remedial massage, Moxibustion and /or Chinese Dietary Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Addiction Support
Break Free using Acupuncture support for Addiction Recovery.
Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy for addiction, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
By addressing a wide range of health issues, acupuncture offers a comprehensive approach to improving both physical and mental health. For addition support Ear Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy , Moxibustion and /or Chinese Dietary Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Overall Well-being
Give to yourself and feel improvement with Wellness Acupuncture Bondi Junction.
By promoting physical and mental balance, acupuncture contributes to overall well-being, helping you feel more energized and balanced.
For overall health Chinese herbal medicine, Cupping Therapy, Moxibustion, Remedial massage and/or Chinese Dietary Therapy is sometimes combined with acupuncture.
Why Choose Kintsugi Therapies for Acupuncture in Bondi Junction?
Experienced and Qualified Practitioner
With over 10 years of experience in the field of acupuncture, you’re in good hands.
I bring that experience, knowledge and expertise to each session. I give you the time you need to tell your story and I listen carefully to your concerns.
The focus is on collaboration, education, treatment and progress and ensuring you receive the highest quality acupuncture care in Bondi Junction.
Conveniently Located in Sydneys Eastern suburbs Bondi Junction
Our clinic is conveniently located in the heart of Bondi Junction, making it easy for you to access the best acupuncture services in Sydney. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, or other health issues, we’re here to help.
Holistic Approach & Supportive Care:
With the skills and ability to integrate various healing methods, including acupuncture, remedial massage, and herbal medicine, we treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Whether you’re recovering from a recent injury or managing a chronic condition, we provide a grounded and supportive space for your healing journey in Bondi Junction.
Relaxing and Comfortable Environment
Our Bondi Junction clinic offers a peaceful, private, and welcoming space to help you decompress and recharge. With lots of natural light and plants to enhance your healing experience.
Comprehensive Acupuncture Services
Kintsugi Therapies – Bondi Junction Acupuncture & Massage offers a wide range of acupuncture services.
Our diverse treatment options including acupuncture, remedial massage, and herbal medicine treat the whole person, not just the symptoms
Commitment to Long-Term Health:
We develop customized treatment plans based on a thorough assessment of your health, ensuring the most effective care for your specific condition. We focus on uncovering the root causes of your health issues and work with you towards sustainable, long-term wellness, right here in Bondi Junction.
Client Education & Referrals:
We empower you with knowledge and strategies to improve your health, encouraging active participation in your wellness journey. At times an outside referral to another modality may be essential to moving forward in treatment. We don’t shy away from suggesting other outside options that may help you improve your health.
Flexible Treatment Plans:
We offer treatment packs to make ongoing sessions more cost-effective, respecting your time and financial investment.
Our Acupuncture Services in Bondi Junction include
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture
Utilizes ancient techniques to balance the body’s energy and improve health.
Electroacupuncture
Combines traditional acupuncture with gentle electrical stimulation to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Motor Point Acupuncture
Motor point acupuncture targets specific points where nerves enter muscles, aiming to release tension and improve muscle function.
Ear Acupuncture (sometime known as Auriculotherapy)
A system within a system, ear acupuncture compliments other strategies in treatment and has proven benefits in cases of addiction support and in Ptsd with veterns.
Scar treatment Acupuncture
A natural method to reduce scar fibrosis and improve scar appearance.
Cupping Therapy
A complementary therapy that uses suction cups to enhance blood flow and relieve muscle tension.
Moxibustion
An ancient technique that involves burning herbs on the needle or near the skin to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi.
Gua Sha Therapy
Gua sha, a traditional Chinese therapy, involves scraping the skin to promote circulation and alleviate tension.
Conditions that Acupuncture is commonly used for include;
Chronic Pain: Acupuncture is frequently used to manage chronic pain conditions such as lower back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and joint pain.
Headaches and Migraines: Acupuncture may provide relief for tension headaches, migraines, and other types of headaches.
Muscle and Joint Conditions: This includes conditions like fibromyalgia, tendonitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Menstrual and Reproductive Issues: Acupuncture may help alleviate menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopausal symptoms.
Digestive Disorders: Acupuncture is sometimes used to treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and nausea.
Stress and Anxiety: Acupuncture may help reduce stress levels and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Insomnia: Some people find acupuncture helpful in improving sleep quality and treating insomnia.
Allergies and Respiratory Conditions: This includes conditions like asthma, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis.
Hypertension: Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy for managing high blood pressure.
Addiction: Acupuncture is sometimes used as part of addiction treatment programs to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Fatigue: Acupuncture may help improve energy levels and alleviate fatigue.
Immune System Support: Some people use acupuncture to boost their immune system and prevent illnesses.
Skin Conditions: Acupuncture may help with certain skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Neurological Conditions: This includes conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), and neuropathy.
Fertility: Acupuncture is sometimes used as part of fertility treatment to help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve reproductive health.
Postoperative Recovery: Acupuncture may aid in postoperative recovery by reducing pain and inflammation and promoting healing.
Weight Management: While not a primary treatment for obesity, acupuncture may be used as part of a comprehensive weight management program.
Meet your Practitioner
I’m Shane, owner and operator of Kintsugi Therapies and your local Bondi Junction acupuncturist. Read more about me here.
Booking Information
How to Book an Appointment
Booking your acupuncture session at Kintsugi Therapies is simple.
Call us at 0431364108 or use our online booking system
Online Booking System
Schedule your appointment conveniently through our online booking platform.
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Acupuncture
ACUPUNCTURE QUESTIONS
Acupuncture is quite literally the insertion of fine filiform needles into specific defined points on the body. The points are part of the Chinese acupuncture channel system and have been documented and used for over two and half thousand years.
The acupuncture needle is a tool to influence these channel systems which have clearly defined, specific and broad influence over body physiology from a Chinese medicine perspective.
A 2019 Systematic review: Safety and side effects of Acupuncture in Australia, published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine found that;
‘Acupuncture is generally a safe modality and serious adverse events after treatment are uncommon when supported with well-established guidelines and practiced by licensed, qualified practitioners.
The main reported side effects of acupuncture tends to be spotting (tiny bleed on needle removal) or minor bruising. Fainting, nausea, residual discomfort or altered energy levels can occur but are rare.
I am only ever a phone call away if you ever have any concerns following a treatment.
Chinese medicine (Acupuncture) is a highly regulated profession here in Australia. All practitioners are now required to have completed a university degree, register with APHRA, be a member of a professional association and be a qualified first aider.
Yes, acupuncture is considered a safe therapy during pregnancy and has become a popular alternative for women seeking assistance with pregnancy associated health concerns. Positive research papers related to reduced labour times, improved cervical ripening, correcting breech presentations, reduction in nausea, improved pain relief and successful labour induction have been published. On-going research is required in this area.
The following information is from WHO: Benchmarks for the practice of acupuncture
Contraindications for acupuncture
4.2.1 By disease and syndrome
Acupuncture treatment should not be administered to people with a disturbance of blood coagulation.
Acupuncture treatment should not be administered to people with unstable epilepsy.
4.2.2 By condition
Acupuncture treatment should not be administered to infants on the fontanelle before it has closed.
Acupuncture treatment should not be administered to the lower abdomen or lumbosacral region in
women who are pregnant, to avoid contraction of the uterus.
4.2.3 By treatment region
Acupuncture treatment should not be administered to body regions where there are ulcers, sores or scars (my note: fresh scars, acupuncture is used for the treatment of scar tissue)
The depth of needle insertion should be strictly controlled for acupoints located close to vital blood
vessels, nerve trunks and vital organs.
Ref: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978-92-4-001688-0
There are a number of precautions for acupuncture, before, during and after treatment, that professional acupuncturists are guided by and I’m aware of these.
There are two main frameworks for the explanation of the mechanism of acupuncture, those are; the western scientific model and the east Asian model. Briefly, the western model is based on the ability of acupuncture to affect the nervous system….. https://chriskresser.com/chinese-medicine-demystified-part-iv-how-acupuncture-works/
Acupuncture in the east asian model fits into a comprehensive and whole understanding of a human beings place in the broader environment and the internal and external interactions (Qi) that occur between both. Unfortunately a translation in the early days of acupunctures transmission to the west meant that the Chinese word ‘Qi’ was translated as ‘energy’ (and it is certainly one meaning). A certain focus of acupuncture practice tended to negate the practical and very physical medicine that it is for the ‘meridian’ (energy) understanding.https://chriskresser.com/chinese-medicine-demystified-part-iii-the-energy-meridian-model-debunked/
Modern research is now demonstrating that the ancient Chinese physicians while certainly having an energetic understanding of all phenomena also had an uncanny ability to decipher real body physiology and how to influence that physiology within an integrated framework. Pls see the following resources for more info.
I’ve included links in the resources section to quality articles that go a bit deeper into these models.
There are two possible types of evidence for acupuncture’s effectiveness, quantitative (clinical trials) and qualitative (everything else).
The short answer is that acupuncture has been observed to create various effects on the body. Rigorous scientific trials due to their complexity often fail to conclude in favour or against acupuncture but many positive evidence from various trials have been published. Some scientific sceptics tend to say there is little or no measurable effect while other scientists, researchers and medical professionals proclaim its’ various mechanisms and potential for healing.
While the hardcore scientific debate continues hopefully the quantitative evidence that exists along with qualitative evidence, including a vast array of case studies and anecdotal evidence by millions of people over thousands of years in hundreds of countries will encourage you to give acupuncture a go and see what it can do for you.
You’ll feel it! It may be subtle. Effects and changes can occur gradually over time, or it may be more immediate. Depending on your issue I’ll give you a timeframe, if you feel improvement isn’t happening or not at the pace you would like, I’m upfront and we can discuss your options openly.
Sometimes as I go through my notes with a client who has been having treatment for awhile, I may mention an issue they brought up when they first came in, to their surprise they hadn’t even noticed but it was improved or no longer an issue. Because acupuncture is based on treating the person, global improvements are often reported by clients e.g. improved sleep.
Acupuncture needles are as fine as a hair, so most people won’t feel much.
Having said that, everybody experiences needle insertion differently and a person’s anticipation may even heighten any feeling. Acupuncture can elicit a variety of sensations, including dull aching, warmth, tingling, pulling, water flowing etc.
I always gauge my client’s potential anticipation of acupuncture and work through it by various means, including distraction, breathing or heavy pressure to the area to help minimise any potential pain feeling.
By far the most common statement I hear from first time acupuncture clients is – ’oh is that it’! The anticipation was much worse than the actual sensation.
Most people find acupuncture to be extremely relaxing and feel rejuvenated afterwards.
No, it’s not. In Australia Acupuncturist is a protected title. Therefore, only qualified professionals who are registered with AHPRA can call themselves by this title.
Acupuncture is based on a comprehensive, coherent and interrelated channel system within a Chinese medicine framework and its dynamic influence on the whole body.
Acupuncture includes needle techniques on muscles that bring about the same effect as dry needling, however this is but one small aspect of the overall scope and power of acupuncture.
The purpose of dry needling or the technique used in dry needling is to improve or restore function to a muscle. The technique itself is based on insertion and rotation of the needle into specific muscle fibres of various muscles to help release and alter that muscles tone and can produce instant and lasting results when performed correctly.
A legal loophole in many countries has allowed non-Acupuncturists to use this technique and incorporate the use of dry needling on clients, often with very little training hours undertaken.
An example, I undertook over 700 supervised clinical hours to become an Acupuncturist, a dry needler can obtain a certification with as little as 16 hours i.e. a 2-day course (for those with proven anatomical training backgrounds).
You can make your own choice but I recommend, for your own safety, to only receive needling from a registered and qualified Acupuncturist.
See also FAQ – ‘What is Dry Needling’ (below).
Never, absolutely not. Acupuncture is a highly regulated health profession and only single use sterilised acupuncture needles are used and disposed of in the correct manner.
I work in a similar style to a GP, people come to see me for a variety of health issues and concerns. I do have some special areas of interest , see HERE.(LINK NEEDED)
Acupuncture & Chinese medicine does not seek to ‘cure’ illness, instead it works by helping to bring your body/mind back into its natural homeostatic state (balance).
Just as water tends to find the lowest point in a natural way, once we begin to tap into and activate your body’s innate defence and restorative system we’re aiming to induce a positive and natural knock on effect.
A symptom is a signal that a bodily system in either under or over functioning, while it’s important to address symptoms, especially in the acute phase, what’s more pressing is that the root of the issue is addressed so that the problem does not re-occur.
Chinese medicine and acupuncture excel at this.
You can find some of the more common reasons for coming to Kintsugi Therapies HERE.
I also have a network of other experts that I can refer you on to if I believe you’ll be better served, these include, Western MD, Physio, Osteo, Chiro, Kinesiologist, Clinical Pilates instructor, Tai chi instructor, Yoga instructor, Personal trainer, Naturopath, Macrobiotic counsellor, Dietician and more.
The World Health Organisation recommends acupuncture for these conditions http://digicollection.org/hss/en/d/Js4926e/5.html
If you’d like to get a bit nerdy on details, please read WHO’S complete Review & Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials
http://digicollection.org/hss/en/d/Js4926e/
If you’re still unsure if acupuncture can help you, please drop me a line HERE. I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Acupuncture like most regulated health interventions is based around a diagnostic framework, except this framework is based on the Chinese medicine model.
A full case history is taken in relation to your health concern but leaves room to get to know you as a person and your unique circumstances.
I want you to feel comfortable to let me know what’s going on and what you need.
You can expect a detailed enquiry and questions, some may seem unrelated to your condition but within our model it has relevance.
Other diagnostic tools we use are, observing your tongue, assessing your pulse and most likely some body palpation.
In an initial consult we will have a discussion around findings and aims for therapy going forward.
On a follow up appointment, we will discuss any changes and base the treatment on the collective information to that point.
Acupuncture points are chosen based on your presentation and a treatment carried out (needles inserted).
Initial session including consultation can take up to 80 mins. Follow up sessions are 40-60 mins.
The medias representation of acupuncture is often based on half-clad bodies with a porcupine’s array of needles in a person’s back.
The reality is that most acupuncture points are accessible if you are wearing loose fitting clothing. Acupuncture points on the back are commonly used, however, I will always drape appropriately when using these points.
Your privacy and personal comfort will always be top priority to me.
The number of needles used during each session may vary but I aim for minimum needles, maximum effect.
As with everything Chinese medicine, it’s a balancing act to get it right.
If you have any relevant scans, imaging, testing etc. that you’d like share please feel free to bring in.
I also suggest having eaten a light meal 1-2 hours before your scheduled session or at least avoid treatment on an empty stomach.
Please try to let me know in advance if you’re nervous about acupuncture and I can take a little extra time to reassure you.
Otherwise just come on in and we’ll go through your reasons for seeking acupuncture and how you hope to improve your health.
It’s best to wear comfortable, loose clothing.
Treating certain body areas may require you to remove some clothing items to allow comprehensive treatment.
You will always be asked if you’re comfortable with this and if so, I will respect your privacy and appropriate draping will always be applied.
It will depend on your body on that day, at that time.
For some people it takes a little time to come around, you may feel a bit ‘out of it’, tired or even feel like you want to sleep. If so, I advise waiting sometime before driving.
Or you may feel energized or ‘in the flow’.
If we’re trying to address pain patterns or improve mobility then we will look at your baseline before and after treatment to see if there is a noticeable improvement, sometimes this occurs post treatment or in the days between sessions.
Most people experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being following acupuncture.
Generally, rest & relax and allow your body time to readjust post treatment.
Avoid exposure to cold or wind in general.
I recommend drinking some warm water or a non-stimulating warm drink (calming herbal tea).
If you must work by all means do (life goes on right!) but try to avoid stressful or aggravating situations if possible.
I may also recommend some stretches for you depending on your issue.
You may feel improvement from the very first session. However, because every patient case varies, timelines can be provided following an initial assessment.
I use the following as a rule of thumb (i.e., guideline only)
- For more minor, non-chronic injuries or movement challenges, we would hope to see dramatic improvement within 4-6 sessions.
- For more major or chronic injuries or movement issues this extends 10-12 sessions.
- For severe or long-term chronic issues, it may take up to 20 sessions to see a significant resolution of your symptoms.
Reviewing progress is an essential part of the treatment process and is carried out on an ongoing basis.
I don’t believe so; I believe ongoing illness is expensive.
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports-data/health-conditions-disability-deaths/burden-of-disease/overview
At some point perhaps we reach a stage where we realise that band aid on top of band aid, a pill for every ill is not sustainable for our bodies or our pockets.
Acupuncture seeks to bring about change at the root level of disease. While I can’t guarantee success in every case, I can promise that I will make every effort to make it a worthwhile experience for you. You can check out fees page here LINK
I also offer pre-paid package acupuncture treatments (e.g. 3/5/10 pack) to make session more cost effective for you.
Most private health funds offer rebates to their clients for acupuncture treatments.
Please check with your individual provider if you are in any doubt.
HICAPS on-site claim is available with your health fund card.
Don’t have your card on you?, that’s ok, I can provide you with an invoice with which you can claim.
I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to keep your appointment. To be fair to me and to other patients who may need appointments, I request that you give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to change or cancel your appointment.
If you cancel or change your appointment with less than 24 hours’ notice you may be charged a late cancellation fee.) LINK NEEDED
If you miss an appointment, you may be charged the full consultation fee.