Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is a treatment that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. It is used to help relieve pain, improve wellbeing, and support the body's natural healing processes. It has been practised as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years and is also recognised as an effective treatment for a range of conditions.

At Sunderland Acupuncture, we take a whole-person approach to care. While many people seek treatment for a specific concern such as pain, injury, headaches, hormonal health, or stress, we recognise that every aspect of your health is connected. Your treatment is tailored not only to your symptoms but also to your lifestyle, medical history, and wellbeing, ensuring care that is individual to you.

Most people experience little to no discomfort. The needles are extremely fine, much thinner than those used for injections. You may feel a slight tingling, warmth, heaviness, or dull ache, which are normal sensations during treatment.

When receiving acupuncture for sports injuries or musculoskeletal conditions, you may notice brief muscle fasciculations (small, involuntary muscle twitches) around the needle. This is a normal and expected response, often indicating that the muscle has reacted to stimulation.

While some areas may feel more sensitive than others, treatment is generally well tolerated, and any sensations usually settle quickly as your body relaxes.

Acupuncture is commonly used to help with:

• Back and neck pain
• Shoulder and knee pain
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Headaches and migraines
• Sports injuries
• Stress and anxiety
• Insomnia
• Women's health and fertility support
• Digestive issues

During your consultation, your treatment will be tailored to your individual needs.

Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single-use disposable needles, acupuncture is considered very safe. Minor bruising or slight tenderness may occasionally occur but usually resolves quickly.

The number of treatments varies depending on your condition, how long you've had it, and your overall health.

As a general guide:

• Acute conditions: 3–6 sessions
• Chronic conditions: 6–12 or more sessions
• Maintenance: Monthly treatments for ongoing wellbeing

Your practitioner will discuss a personalised treatment plan during your consultation.

Before your appointment, you'll be asked to complete a confidential online health questionnaire. This allows your acupuncturist to review your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals in advance.

During your treatment time, we'll discuss your completed health form, ask any additional questions to gain a full understanding of your health, and carry out your first acupuncture treatment. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about acupuncture or your personalised treatment plan.

Most acupuncture treatments are 45 minutes, the exceptions are the Nurture & Grow Consultation & Treatment which is 60 minutes and the Restore & Reset for 30 minutes.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and lower legs. If needed, towels can be provided to ensure your comfort and privacy.

Yes. It's recommended that you eat a light meal or snack before your appointment. Avoid attending on an empty stomach.

Yes. All needles used are sterile, single-use disposable needles that are safely disposed of after each treatment.

In most cases, yes. Acupuncture can work alongside conventional medical care, offering an integrated approach that supports your health and recovery. Please let your practitioner know about any medications, ongoing treatments, or medical conditions so your treatment can be planned safely.

Many people feel deeply relaxed after treatment, while others notice increased energy or gradual improvement in their symptoms over the following days. Some people experience mild temporary soreness at needle sites, which usually settles quickly.