The ancient Chinese believed that there is a universal life energy called Chi or Qi present in every living creature. This energy is said to circulate throughout the body along pathways that are called meridians. When this energy flows freely throughout the meridians, health is maintained, but once the flow of energy is blocked, the system is disrupted and pain and illness occur. Imagine rivers that flood and cause disasters or an electrical grid short-circuiting that causes blackouts. Acupuncture works to "re-programme" and restore normal functions by inserting needles into certain points on the meridians in order to unblock the Qi and restore normal function.

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In medical terms, acupuncture is thought to work by blocking pain receptors, stimulating the nervous system, the production of endorphins and promoting blood circulation.

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• Each acupuncture treatment is individually tailored
• It is safe and has no side effects
• Treats the root cause of the problem not just the symptoms
• It is suitable for all types of people with any condition
• Safely used along side conventional medicine

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Acupuncture's popularity in the western world has increased dramatically in the past two decades. Numerous reputable mainstream scientific studies have proven its effectiveness in treating many health condition ranging from the prevention and treatment of diseases to relieving pain. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of conditions.

At our clinic we are dedicated to giving you the best treatment and achieving results. I am highly qualified, I have extensive training in both Ireland and China. I am a member of Acupuncture Foundation Professional Association bound by a strict code of ethics, fully registered, qualified and insured. You are in safe hands at our clinic.

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• Chronic and Acute Pain: Muscular Pain, Sports Injuries, Headaches and Migraines, Back Pain, Tennis / Golf Elbow, Arthritis, Muscular Tension, Joint Pain, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Neck and Shoulder Injuries, Tendonitis, Fibromyalgia.
• Respiratory Disorders: Asthma, Bronchitis, Hayfever, Allergies, Rhinitis, Sore Throat, Colds and Flu, Sinusitis.
• Female Issues: Menstrual Problems, Infertility, PCOS, Endometriosis, Dysmenorrhea, Cystitis, PMS, Menopausal Symptoms.
• Pregnancy Care: Morning Sickness, Heartburn, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Sciatica, Constipation, Haemorrhoids, Back Pain, Oedema, Breech Presentation, High Blood Pressure, Labour Preparation, Induction, Anaemia, Headaches, Sinus Problems.
• Digestive Disorders: IBS, Colitis, Gastritis, Heartburn, Bloating, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Nausea, Ulcers, Inflammatory Bowel Disorders, Food Allergies, Weight Problems.
• Neurological Disorders: Bell's Palsy and Trigeminal Neuralgia, Post-Stroke Recovery, Movement Disorders.
• Mental and Emotional: Stress, Insomnia, Panic Attacks, Anxiety, Depression.
• Childhood Ailments: Asthma, Eczema, Allergies, Nightmares, Bedwetting, ADHD, Facial Tics, Digestive Problems, Earache and Headaches.

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A visit to Evolution Acupuncture you will find a calm, relaxing environment. We'll chat for a few minutes to get to know each other. Then we will begin the session. On the first visit a detailed assessment is carried out. All aspects of the person are considered. Details relating to the condition itself, past and current medical history, lifestyle, current medication, are all part of the assessment leading to a traditional chinese medicine diagnosis.

The assessment can be quite detailed but be assured that every bit of information is completely confidential. I am highly professional and am bound by a strict code of ethics ensuring appropriate treatment and respect of the client at all times.

Chinese medicine treats the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms, so the more we know about you and your condition, the more effective your treatment will be.

The 1st visit can take longer, because we are trying to gather as much information about the client as possible and then tailor an individual treatment plan. Subsequent treatments are usually 40 minutes to 1hr long. After the initial assessment, a treatment is then given and the needles will be left in place for 20- 30 minutes.

How do I prepare for my session?
Loose, comfortable clothes are best, most acupuncture points are located on the limbs, so you may not have to remove clothing if it is possible for example to roll up your trousers leg, or pull up your sleeve.
Do not drink alcohol.
Please be on time, you will get the most out of your treatment if you are not rushing and are getting the full session time. The clinic works on appointment only basis so please respect the time of the person before you by not arriving too early, and the person after you by being on time so as not to delay them.

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Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes, Only the highest quality, single use, disposable Acupuncture needles are used. They come in pre-sterilised sealed packets and only ever used once. Acupuncture is a natural, drug-free therapy, there are no side effects.

Do the needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are tiny, about the width of a human hair, there is usually no discomfort or pain when the needles are being inserted.

What do the needles feel like once inserted?
Some people report a tingling sensation, others report a dull sensation, everyone is different, the therapist will be looking for you to have some sensation, but once it is felt the needles are left in place for about 20 minutes.

Do you use other modalities other than needles?
Yes, acupuncture is part of Chinese medicine, we use heat treatments - called moxabustion, a magnetic heat lamp, electro stimulation, cupping and I am also qualified in Tuina - Chinese medical massage. I use these modalities as part of treatments where appropriate, there is no extra charge.

Do you treat children?
While in China, Caitriona studied under Dr. Dong at the Da Zhong hospital in Nanjing, who specialized in treating children with acupuncture. Many practitioners steer clear of treating children because of lack of experience. Caitriona is experienced and confident in treating children of all ages, having personally treated babies as young as 2 months old in China. Some children's conditions can be treated with acupuncture and auricular seed therapy (which is where magnets on tiny plasters are stuck to the outer ear). The principles of auricular acupuncture are similar to reflexology, where the Chinese believe the ear is a micro system of the body and by stimulating points on the ear can help make changes in the body. This is painless and free from side effects, children respond very well to acupuncture and auricular therapy.
Some of the conditions that can be treated in children are: Asthma, Eczema, Allergies, Nightmares, Bedwetting, ADHD, Facial Tics, Digestive Problems, Earache and Headaches.
Our clinic is child friendly and safe.

Will my health insurance cover it?
Yes, insurance companies in Ireland do reimburse some of the costs of acupuncture treatments. Please check with your current health insurance provider, your insurance package may include reimbursement of some of the costs.
     

Acupuncture is a wonderful and highly effective treatment. As your therapist, I will strive to do my best for you, to improve your condition. Along with my efforts, I would urge you to work with me by taking the lifestyle advice given to you. Acupuncture is proven to be an effective treatment for many conditions, it is not a miracle cure or "magic wand". If we work together, we will get results.

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Acupuncture foundation Professional Association
Information on acupuncture
World Health Organisation

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