In addition to acupuncture, depending on the condition, the following may be offered:

Cupping Therapy

Glass jars are quickly placed on the skin after a vacuum is created with a flame. This is particularly effective after acupuncture to help relieve back or shoulder pain by warming the local area and clearing stagnation from the channels. Cups are usually retained for 10 minutes.

Moxibustion

A cigar shaped stick made from moxa (mugwort) is lit and held over an acupoint for 5 minutes in order to warm the needle and the local area. Moxibustion is useful in many conditions, helping to tonify Yang, warm the channels and relieve pain.   

Herbs (pre-prepared formulas)

Herbal pills may be offered for chronic or complex conditions, particularly those involving deficiency. It is often useful to have a course after receiving acupuncture in order to keep the body in balance and reduce the need for further sessions.

Nutritional advice 

According to TCM theory foods have properties similar to herbs and can have a strong effect on the condition of the body. It is therefore useful to tell the practitioner as much as possible about dietary habits during the consultation. For many conditions herbs are not necessary if the patient eats correctly, and this can also enhance the effects of acupuncture. Nutritional advice is usually given after a session.