Acupuncture is a 2000-year-old branch of Chinese Medicine. An acupuncture treatment aims to bring the body into balance, physically and emotionally. Very fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi, thus stimulating a natural healing response and promoting relaxation. The initial treatment involves an in-depth diagnostic interview plus a treatment. When appropriate self-care advice is also given.

l have a level 5 diploma and am currently studying for a BTEC level 6 in Advanced Clinical and Sports Massage from Jing Advanced Massage in Brighton — the highest massage qualification in the UK. The Jing method blends trigger point, fascial work, acupressure and stretching.  A session includes assessment with orthopaedic functional muscle testing. I aim for a reduction in pain and an increase in movement in 6 treatments or fewer. I also do hot stones and have CPDs in TMJ and MFR. I am a member of the SMA (sports massage association) . 

Gua Sha (coming from the Chinese word to scrape) involves using a tool to scrape the skin after oil is applied. It is said to increase circulation and so treat muscle stiffness and aches. It is also used to benefit the immune system and reduce inflammation, so it can be used to treat colds and fevers. The treatment can leave red marks (called sha) on the patient; these normally disappear in a few days.

As with traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted in specific points on the body, either an acupoint or a point where pain occurs. The needles are attached by clips to a small electrical device that generates continuous electric pulses. Electro-acupuncture is commonly used for pain relief and musculoskeletal issues.

This technique involves the insertion of needles in acupoints plus small dermal needles in wrinkles, which stimulates the muscles and aids collagen production. Often as a result of improved energy flow, the quality of the skin improves, plus the depth and severity of wrinkles. A typical treatment involves facial massage using jade rollers and gua sha tools. Serums and creams from the professional skincare range Medik8 are used.

Moxa is a warming and nourishing treatment involving burning mugwort (artemisia vulgaris) in sticks, cones or boxes. As the herb burns, it penetrates deep into the body. It is good for pain and weakness conditions.