You may find you feel very relaxed and sleep better following your first treatment. However, it may take several treatments before you notice much real improvement. Treatments are normally given at weekly intervals, although your doctor may advise more or less time between treatments. If you have not noticed any recovery after 3 treatments your doctor may feel that you are unlikely to respond and may advise you to stop your acupuncture treatment. We now have a much better understanding of how acupuncture works, although there are many things we still don't understand.
More research is needed.
We know that acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain killing chemicals within your body. These are released in several areas of your body - around the needles, in your spinal cord where the nerves run, and in your brain. Acupuncture also causes the release of other natural substances in your body which promote healing and aid recovery. Dr Ruth Livingstone is a full accredited member of the British Medical Acupuncture Society. Members of the society are all medically qualified.