FAQs

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is part of the system of healthcare known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which originated in China over 2000 years ago. The underlying principle behind TCM is that qi or vital energy flows through our body in pathways or channels known as meridians. Pain or illness occurs when this qi or vital energy is blocked and is unable to flow freely within these meridians, signifying that the body is out of balance.

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine, sterile, disposable needles into specific Acupuncture points to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of qi through the body.

Is Acupuncture safe?

Yes. We use only fine, sterile, disposable, single use Acupuncture needles. At Shen we are all qualified acupuncturists and adhere to the strict regulations as set down by the Acupuncture Professional bodies.

Is Acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture needles are very fine and generally do not hurt when they pierce the skin. When the needles are stimulated you may feel a tingling or distending feeling in the local area.

What does a treatment involve?

The first consultation with us will generally take an hour and a half and subsequent treatments one hour. During your first visit we will need to gain an understanding of the main reason for your visit and your general health and lifestyle. We will cover all aspects of your physical, mental and emotional state of health. Based on this comprehensive information we will decide on a treatment plan with you.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Each individual responds to treatment differently, sometimes relief is immediate or may be noticed hours or days later. Some people feel energized after a treatment while others feel fatigued. Sometimes emotions come up following treatment or symptoms may worsen. This is quite normal. If your condition worsens and you are concerned you should get in touch with your practitioner and/or seek medical care.

Are there any unpleasant side effects with Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has virtually no unpleasant side effects. Any that do occur are mild and self-correcting. Occasionally there may be bruising at the needle point or a short-term flare-up of your symptoms.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments that you will need depends on many factors. At your first consultation we will take into account the overall health of your body and the nature of your condition to give you an estimate of how many treatments you will need. In general less severe conditions will require fewer treatments than more chronic health concerns.

How much does a treatment cost?

The fee for Acupuncture is €50 per treatment, Cosmetic Acupuncture is €65 per treatment and Naturopathic Consultation is €125 and follow up Naturopathic treatments €50.

Do you accept insurance?

All Shen Acupuncture treatments are recognized by Laya Healthcare, VHI Healthcare, Hibernian Health and HSF Health plan. Please check your individual policy details.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash payments & Card payment in the Gorey/Galway Clinic.

Can Acupuncture work with conventional medicine or other therapies?
Acupuncture can be used as an adjunct to conventional medicine or other therapies. We never recommend changing medication or other therapies without consulting your General Practitioner or Therapist.

Is Labour Induction Acupuncture safe for me and my baby?

Yes, acupuncture is a very safe and gentle treatment for mother and baby. We use only fine, sterile, disposable, single use Acupuncture needles. At Shen we are all qualified acupuncturists and adhere to the strict regulations as set down by the Acupuncture Professional bodies.

Does Labour Induction Acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very fine and generally do not hurt when they pierce the skin. When the needles are stimulated you may feel a tingling or distending feeling in the local area.

During pregnancy can I have acupuncture if I have high blood pressure or gestational diabetes?

Yes, acupuncture can have a positive effect in the early stages of pregnancy- induced- hypertension and it is safe to use with gestational diabetes.

How quickly does Labour Induction work?

Acupuncture is a safe and effective method of inducing labour. Some women begin labour within hours while others may take longer. If labour does not commence spontaneously, feedback from midwives suggest that women treated with acupuncture have a more efficient labour following the administration of prostaglandin with no further intervention required. (ref: Debra Betts. The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth)

Are there any after effects of labour Induction?

Acupuncture has virtually no unpleasant side effects. Any that do occur are mild and self-correcting. Occasionally there may be bruising at the needle point. Women generally find it a pleasant and relaxing experience.

Does Acupuncture / Naturopathy work for everyone?

Results of our treatments may vary from patient to patien. It is very important to carry out the full treatment recommended by our experts in order to gain best results. We work with our patients on an individual basis but cannot guarantee our treatments will work 100% on all patients.