TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICAL (TCM) ACUPUNCTURE with Emma Vickers

TCM ACUPUNCTURE

I use several approaches within my clinic including Five Elements and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), but I also use the contemporary application of Stems and Branches philosophy which underpins my clinical picture for each patient.

Stems and Branches is a classical Chinese approach which looks at life cycles and natural patterns to identify areas of potential weakness, so that the practitioner can strengthen the patient’s constitutional energy. It incorporates the categorising of phenomena (as seen in Five Elements correspondences and Yin/Yang theory) and so is perfectly applied in addition to other approaches. It also allows us to gain a greater understanding of the potential root cause of a patient’s problem and provides appropriate acupuncture points which will target the area of weakness much more effectively.

TRAINING

Throughout the three- year study, I was actively working with and treating patients, alongside observing senior acupuncturists. Since graduating I have also attended extra study programmes including supporting women through IVF, treating menopause, treating pregnant women to turn babies in breech presentation and treating patients with musculoskeletal issues.

The ICOM course is the oldest in the UK and combines Chinese medicine with comprehensive Western medicine modules (anatomy, physiology and pathology) so that all graduates are qualified to work alongside NHS healthcare professionals.

I am a fully accredited member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and am also qualified in several massage disciplines, including Acupressure, Swedish and Indian head massage.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Despite its traditional origins, acupuncture is an effective, safe and widely-respected medical practise used by health care professionals throughout the world.

The main techniques used by acupuncturists involve inserting ultra-fine needles at certain points on the body or by moxibustion (using warmth to penetrate and nourish at a deeper level). However other techniques such as massage or cupping may also be used in clinic depending on what is required.

As acupuncture can be used to address any health imbalance it is used to treat all health issues, such as musculo-skeletal pain, migraines, menstrual issues, menopause symptoms, digestive/bowel issues, urinary problems, fatigue, insomnia and anxiety and depression. If you have any questions about whether it can help you, please get in touch.