Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) services are now available at Be Well Medical Center.
If, like many Westerners, you have little experience of these treatments, read on for more information.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the form of traditional Chinese medicine that’s best known to Western minds. This therapy originated thousands of years ago and is based on the idea that energy (called “Chi”) flows within the body along certain paths called meridians.
When the flow of Chi energy is blocked, the body is out of balance, and this causes health problems. Acupuncturists use sterile, single-use needles to restore the correct flow of Chi, which returns harmony to the body
The needles are typically left in the skin for 10-20 minutes. Sometimes the therapist will give them a little twist also, to increase the healing effect.
It sounds painful, doesn’t it? But, the needles used are very thin – just 2-3 times bigger than a mosquito’s nose and much smaller than anything used in Western medicine. In fact, many people report not feeling the needles going in at all.
What is acupuncture good for?
Here are some of the most common health conditions helped by acupuncture:
- anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances, low mood and depression
- pain (examples: back pain, neck pain, joint pain/arthritis, migraines and other headaches)
- weight-loss, stopping smoking and help with other addictions.
Stick out your tongue
Don’t be surprised if the acupuncturist asks you to stick out your tongue. In Chinese medicine, the colour and coating of the tongue helps the therapist work out the cause of your problem. This is why it’s better if you don’t brush your tongue in the 24 hours before the appointment.
Other things to consider before an acupuncture treatment:
- Don’t arrive hungry or over-full
- Avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours before your appointment
- Wear loose-fitting clothes that are easy to roll up
- Be relaxed and well-rested before your appointment
Is it safe?
Acupuncture is generally safe from side-effects but people taking anti-coagulant medication (blood-thinners) can expect bruising afterwards and must inform the acupuncturist before the start of treatment.
Other aspects of TCM
Moxibustion is the use of heated herbal sticks that are held near the acupuncture needles to warm and stimulate the acupuncture points.
Cupping is the use of glass or silicone suction cups on the skin to promote the local flow of blood and Chi energy.
Chinese herbs are also sometimes given as teas, pills, and capsules.
Make an appointment
Modern acupuncture has been developed over thousands of years. It is safe and shouldn’t be feared.
Appointments for Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, including cupping, are available from Tuesday to Saturday.
New patients will be required to have a 90 minute session on their first visit to allow Claire to do a full assessment and treatment with subsequent sessions being 60 minutes.
If you’d like to give it a try, simply give us a call (02 111 6644) or email for an appointment.
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine Pricelist
Please note that our cancellation policy applies to these appointments. (for details see here)
| Sessions: | Standard | Members |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment 90 Minutes | THB 1200 | THB 1000 |
| 60 Minutes | THB 1000 | THB 800 |
