FAQ

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of fine single use stainless steel needles into predetermined points on the body for therapeutic effect. The word ‘acupuncture’ is derived from the Latin words ‘acu’ which means needle and ‘punctura’ which translates into puncture, a term first proposed by the Dutch physician, William Ten Rhyne, in the 17th century. Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (usually abbreviated to TCM) which also includes Chinese Herbal Medicine, Tuina (a form of massage), Dietary Therapy, and special Exercise Therapy known as Qi Gong.

Why should I see an acupuncturist?

Patients seek a natural, holistic medical approach to healthcare to avoid the side effects.

Can acupuncture help me even if I feel healthy?

Yes, absolutely. Many patients come in for regular maintenance treatments to stay healthy through the year. Acupuncturists see subtle signs of disease processes at work before symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. Chinese medicine effectively addresses these issues, preventing future problems from occurring. Because acupuncture treatments are so deeply relaxing, many patients find regular, maintenance treatments beneficial for stress relief.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Some patients feel a slight 'Qi' sensation when the needle is inserted: most feel nothing at all. These 'Qi sensations' range from local warmth or tingling, to a brief ache or heaviness in the area being needled. They indicate favorable results from the acupuncture treatment, as Qi has been strongly contacted. By and large patients describe these sensations as fleeting and the treatment experience as deeply relaxing. In fact, many patients find acupuncture so relaxing that they fall asleep during treatment.

Are the needles safe?

Yes, acupuncturists use sterile, disposable needles. They are used once then hygienically disposed of.

Are there any side effects to acupuncture?

One of the reasons that acupuncture has been so well embraced in the West may have to do with its low rate of side effects.

"One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions." (Acupuncture. NIH Consens Statement 1997 Nov 3-5; 15 (5): 9.)

What should I wear for the acupuncture treatments?

Wear loose fitted, comfortable clothing. You might want to bring a loose top and shorts to allow the acupuncturist easy access to the body. Most of the points needled are on the torso and limbs, below the elbows and knees. Exceptions are for pain, where local points will be used in the affected area, such as the shoulder.

Should I keep my appointment if I'm sick?

Yes. Acupuncture is highly effective for treating acute conditions, such as colds and flus, stomach viruses and headaches. Patients report immediate improvement in symptoms after acupuncture treatment.

Many patients call immediately to schedule a treatment when they first notice cold or flu symptoms. These include healthcare practitioners who don't want to get their patients sick, business professionals who are too busy for a sick day or two, and patients who are chronically ill and want to 'get this one over with, quickly'.

So if you're sick, call your acupuncturist and make an appointment. If you have an appointment scheduled, keep it.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

The cost of Acupuncture treatment is reimbursable by Vivas Health, VHI and Laya Healthcare Outpatient Schemes and Members of the ACI are recognised by Vivas Health, HSF Health Plan, VHI and Laya Healthcare in this regard (check your policy and excess for details).

Spinal Energetics

Spinal Energetics (SE) is a modality developed by D. Sarah Jane. It is a unique approach to nervous system care that focuses on the relationship between the spine and one's physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing by accessing the energetic field.

How Spinal Energetics works:

1. Assessment:

A trained Spinal Energetics practitioner will assess your leg length, tension patterns in the spine and evaluate for resonance within the energetic field layers. This then allows the practitioner to observe the specific Process that the client is holding within the present layer of the body (In SE there are 6 Processes A, B, C, D, E and F that reflect certain tension patterns with specific meanings metaphysically and physically). 

2. Light Touch:

Spinal Energetics involves light yet specific touches to the spine, energetic layers and centres, that cue the body's innate healing response to unlock tension patterns stored in the body. 

3. Spinal Energetics Session:

The practitioner uses these activations, contacts and sound to assist your spine/nervous system in adapting and releasing tension via the energetic field, as a result of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual or personal soul stressors. This then leads to the inner wisdom to alter these patterns on it's own, leading to more efficient communication between your brain, body and spirit.

4. Psychosomatic Movement:

Spinal Energetics is known for its focus on the concepts of spinal 'unwinding' and the rhythmic movements that your body naturally produces in response to stress and tension. SE touches, sounds and cues allow the body to unwind these tension patterns via this innate movement that is within us all. Spinal Energetics assists the body in accessing and using these spinal energetic movements for healing.

5. New Patterns and Spontaneous movement.

In time, with repeated Spinal Energetics sessions, the body creates new optimal patterns focused on the present, and as a result has new strategies for facing stress and tension as a human being. Additionally, the clients body will move spontaneously on its own, creating an empowering experience for the client and not one that is solely reliant upon a practice.

What to expect in a Spinal Energetics session? 

Each Spinal Energetics session is tailored to the individual, typically commencing with an open conversation between the patient and practitioner. During this discussion, the practitioner will inquire about your personal background, including both physical and emotional aspects. They will also provide an overview of their approach and what you might expect during the session, including potential emotional and energetic sensations.

Following the conversation, the patient will lay down and the practitioner will begin an assessment of the spine's alignment, posture, and any areas of tension or imbalance then access it through the layer of the energetic field. 

Your practitioner will tell you which areas of the body reflect which areas of your life, for example, the left arm carries emotional tension, chest carries matters of the heart, and the right arm carries physical tension, this aims at giving feedback on how much “baggage” is being held onto or stored.

Using a variety of techniques such as gentle touch, visualization, breathwork, and subtle movements, the practitioner works with the body's energy system to release blockages, restore balance, and facilitate the flow of energy along the spine and throughout the body. These methods also aim to unravel any narratives or emotional patterns that may unravel narratives that may have been stored in the body over time.

Are there at-home techniques or exercises for balancing Spinal Energetics?

Yes, there are various techniques and exercises that can enhance spinal energetics. These include spinal alignment exercises, breathwork, visualization, meditation, yoga asanas, energy healing modalities like Reiki, and. Incorporating these practices into your routine can promote energy flow, balance the chakras, and optimize overall well-being.

Can Spinal Energetics address specific conditions or ailments?

Spinal energetics can be beneficial for addressing specific conditions or ailments such as back pain, muscle tension, joint stiffness, migraines, and stress-related disorders. By restoring energy flow and harmonizing the spine, it supports the body's natural healing processes, facilitating relief and promoting overall health.

Is there scientific research supporting the effectiveness of Spinal Energetics?

While research specifically focused on spinal energetics may be limited, scientific studies on related modalities such as acupuncture and energy healing provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of energy flow and its impact on well-being. These studies suggest a potential connection between spinal energetics and positive health outcomes.

How soon can I expect results from a Spinal Energetics session?

The timeframe for experiencing the benefits of spinal energetics varies from individual to individual. Some may notice improvements in a relatively short period, while others may require multiple sessions over a longer duration. Factors such as the severity of the condition, overall health, and individual responsiveness can influence the timeframe.

Can Spinal Energetics complement other holistic practices?

Absolutely! Spinal energetics can be seamlessly integrated with other holistic practices such as yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, sound healing and more. Combining these modalities creates a synergistic effect, enhancing the overall effectiveness and providing a comprehensive approach to holistic well-being.

Spinal energetics serves as a gateway to holistic well-being, optimizing energy flow, harmonizing chakras, and nurturing overall vitality. By understanding its principles and benefits, individuals can embark on a transformative journey towards enhanced physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Through techniques, exercises, and integration with other holistic practices, spinal energetics empowers individuals to unlock their full potential and embrace a life of balance and well-being.

What to wear for the session?

Just wear comfortable and lose clothing - please no jeans or thick materials that makes it difficult to feel the spine.