Acupuncture
An alternative therapy technique derived from traditional Chinese medicine where thin needles are inserted into pressure points in the body.
Acupuncturists treat common problems such as back pain, neck pain and joint pain. It is thought to influence energy flow in the area of the body where the needles are inserted. It can stimulate the immune system, promote circulation, produce natural healing substances in the body, relieve pain, help with stress, and improve our overall wellbeing.
Training
You will need to complete a specialist course, which can vary in length and level of qualification, but are usually degree level or equivalent. You will study Chinese medicine theory along with physiology, anatomy and other western medical sciences, as well as undertake observation and training in a clinical setting. Accredited courses can be found with the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB) to guarantee excellence in training, safe practice and professional conduct.
If you're already a qualified healthcare professional, you could train in acupuncture with the British Medical Acupuncture Society. As a trained member, you can use acupuncture in your professional practice.
Regulation
Although there is no statutory regulation of acupuncture in the UK, the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) is the UK’s largest professional body for traditional acupuncturists.
The BAcC has a professional register that is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
Types of acupuncture
As an acupuncturist you'll take a holistic approach to treatment, looking at the individual rather than just their symptoms.
Traditional Chinese acupuncture is based on the belief the flow of Qi (vital energy) can be naturally restored through specific pathways (meridians) in your body.
Western medical acupuncture (dry needling) follows the same principles of traditional acupuncture and involves stimulating nerves, muscles and connective tissue that lie under the skin, often following a medical diagnose to relieve pain.
Professional bodies
Aside from the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), the British Acupuncture Federation (BAF) is the largest and fastest growing independent acupuncture group in the UK. You can register with one of the professional bodies that work with BAF including:
- Acupuncture Association
- Association of Acupuncture Clinicians (AAC)
- Association of Five Element Acupuncture (AFEA)
- Association of Naturopathic Practitioners (ANP)
- Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture UK (ATCM)
- British Academy of Western Medical Acupuncture (BAWMA)
- Chinese Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Alliance UK (CAHMA)
- Chinese Medicine Alliance UK (CMA)
- Institute of Scalp Acupuncture UK
- Japanese Acupuncture and Moxa Association (JAMA)
- Tibetan and Eastern Medicine Association (TEMA)