Acupuncture has been used successfully for many thousands of years in the treatment of a wide range of conditions. By inserting a number of very fine needles into specific points along a system of energy pathways or meridians, the acupuncturist endeavours to restore balance on every level. Because acupuncture works on the whole body, change can be generated emotionally as well as physically.

After taking an extensive case history, the practitioner will decide on the most appropriate course of treatment. This may be acupuncture alone or may incorporate the use of moxibustion (the warming of acupuncture points using the herb Artimisia), tui-na (massage), cupping, dietary or lifestyle advice and perhaps the recommendation of gentle exercise (tai chi) or breathing (qi gong) techniques

A course of treatment is generally considered to be between 8- 10 treatments. Some conditions will benefit in fewer than this and long term problems could be expected to require considerably more.

Conditions which may be treated using acupuncture

The following list is based on recommendations from the World Health Organisation.

• Musculoskeletal - Back pain, joint sprains, muscle strain, sciatica, arthritis, sporting injuries, sports performance or enhancement.
• Respiratory - sinus problems, hay fever, common cold or flu, asthma, bronchitis.
• Gastrointestinal - constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, haemorrhoids, heart burn and reflux
• Cardiovascular - angina, palpitations, high and low blood pressure.
• Women's health - irregular or painful periods, some fertility disorders, premenstrual difficulties, menopausal symptoms
• Pregnancy - morning sickness, breech baby, heart burn, lower back pain, preparation for labour.
• Neurological - headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, shingles, Meniere's disease, tinnitus, bell's palsy, post-stroke syndrome, insomnia.
• Metabolic Disorders - chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, hormonal irregularities.
• Psychological disorders - post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, smoking/drug addiction
• Men's Health - fertility issues, erectile dysfunction, prostate difficulties, hair loss
• Other - Skin conditions, sports performance or enhancement, prostate problems, bladder disorders

Gareth Powdrell holds a bachelors degree in Health science - Acupuncture, a diploma in Tuina (Chinese therapeutic massage) and a diploma in Qi gong

He is a member of the New Zealand Register of Acupuncturists and an ACC treatment provider

Gareth is available every Thursday and treatments last 1 hour.