Acupuncture

Acupuncture for Pain Relief, Healing and Balance

Discover gentle, holistic acupuncture designed to reduce pain, support healing, and restore balance. Whether managing chronic conditions, recovery, or fertility support, I’m here to help you feel better naturally.

Lucy Clarke Acupuncture Treatment

Working with me

Helping You Feel Better, Naturally

People often come to me when pain or illness is getting in the way of how they want to live. Whether it’s physical pain from injury, strain or trauma, or the ongoing discomfort of a chronic condition like arthritis or an auto-immune disorder, they’re usually looking for more than temporary relief — they want to get back to themselves.

Acupuncture can offer real support, especially when used alongside medical treatments. I often work with people undergoing fertility treatment, chemotherapy, post-operative recovery, or managing long-term medication. Acupuncture can help reduce side effects, support healing, and ease both physical and emotional tension.

I have a particular interest in Women’s Health and Fertility Support, but I also work with people living with long-term conditions who feel overlooked or stuck. If you’ve been told there’s nothing more that can be done, or you’re feeling lost after medication stops being effective, acupuncture may offer a new sense of balance and support. Many of my patients report feeling more positive, better in themselves, and more able to manage their health after treatment.

I started to see Lucy just over 7 years ago and initially went for treatment for chronic depression which I have had cycles of since I was a teenager. The clinic itself is calming and in an ideal location, and night-time appointments fit in well with my work hours.

I have chosen to go every 5-6 weeks to maintain my health in a holistic balanced way, and know I can also go in at any time and ask her to focus on other things (i.e. fatigue, hormonal issues) and this is never an issue for her as she will tailor the treatment.

I am so happy that I found Lucy as she has proved herself to be very professional, caring, honest, knowledgeable, and listens well. She is such an interesting lady, I highly recommend her and cannot thank her enough for the positive changes the treatment has had on me.

Female 40yrs, Chronic Depression, Hormone Balance, Energy Support

Can Acupuncture help me?

A Holistic Approach to Long-Term Health and Recovery

You might be wondering if Acupuncture can help or support your health? Maybe pain is stopping you living life the way they want or doing the things you enjoy. This can be physical pain from injury, repetitive strain or trauma but also systemic pain from chronic illness i.e Arthritis, Auto-immune conditions. When painkillers give little respite, or you want to target things differently, Acupuncture is often the route that help people regain function and health.

Specific medical treatments

People often benefit from Acupuncture treatment when used as an adjunct to specific medical treatments e.g. Fertility Treatment, Chemotherapy, Post-operative recovery.

It is also beneficial for minimising symptoms experienced with various medication regimes. Acupuncture during and after treatment helps minimise side effects, promote healing and relax and calm the mind.

Supporting named conditions

You might be living with a long-term health condition and tired you have become a label and that nothing else can be done to improve your health and at a bit of a loss when medications no longer help your symptoms. I frequently support patients with chronic health imbalances to optimise their health, feel more positive, and have an increased overall sense of wellbeing.

The Advertising Standards Agency restrict naming specific conditions Acupuncture can treat.

Individualised Treatments

There are lots of reasons why people come to me for Acupuncture and your treatment is individualised and tailored to your health. I think this is one of the reasons Acupuncture is so effective. The following examples explain individualised treatment –

Example 1 – Headaches & Migraines
Western medicine may recommend the same medicine for people experiencing headaches. However, with Acupuncture patients have individualised treatment. A patient’s symptoms, triggers, location and type of pain are discussed. After understanding their overall health, and other signs and symptoms, an individual treatment plan is created. Different points and treatment modalities are selected, and individual diet & lifestyle advice is given.

Example 2 – Low mood, stress, low motivation
Some patients feel stress, unease, tired and have no motivation.  They might also be experiencing anger, grief, confusion or sadness. This is often accompanied with sluggish digestion and poor sleep. Conventional medicine might prescribe similar medications. Acupuncture treatment takes a different approach. Each person receives treatment specific to them. The Branch (symptoms) and Root (cause) of their energetic imbalance is treated to support their return to health.

Acupuncture without Needles

Different ailments and symptoms respond to additional treatments that do not involve needles! In clinic I use the following treatments alongside Acupuncture needles to obtain the best results for you.  

For some patients and particular conditions, I don’t use needles at all! 

Acupuncture adjunct therapies:

Cupping moves blocked and stagnated energy found in painful, restricted muscles.  

Cupping (also known as Myofascial Decompression) involves small cups being placed on the skin and creating a vacuum. The cups are then gently moved or left in place.

Cupping reduces inflammation and speeds healing. It does this by circulating blood, re-oxygenating tissues, removing toxins and promoting cell repair. Cupping can also be used to treat coughs and congestion in the chest.

This treatment is not painful and the temporary marking that can occur is short lived, in fact this is a good indication change is occurring.

Gua Sha is a traditional treatment with similar effects to Cupping and is used to alleviate pain and restriction in the body.

Gua Sha (with similarities to the Graston Technique) can be used on areas difficult to cup such as the neck and ankle but also on large muscles on the body. The literal translation is ‘scrape or stroke-rash’. You may also hear it referred to ‘coining’ or ‘spooning’.

Gua Sha helps to lengthen muscles, break down adhesions and invigorate blood flow. The intentional rash brought to the surface of the skin indicates the elimination of toxins and old blood. Research has demonstrated this form of microperfusion has been demonstrated to stimulate immune and anti-inflammatory responses.

Moxibustion involves burning the dried herb Artemisia vulgaris (known as common mugwort) on or near the skin over specific Acupuncture points, along the affected channel, or over particular areas of the body.

Moxa comes in many forms and has many uses. It is very warming. I often use Moxa to dispel cold, alleviate pain, strengthen treatments and bolster energy levels.

Infra-red heat penetrates deep into the skin and muscles (3-5cm) which increases blood flow to the surrounding area. This helps to repair damaged tissue, break down dead cells, relieve pain and increase healing. 

A small current is passed between a pair of Acupuncture needles. This is particularly useful when working with pain conditions. Electro-Acupuncture is also used when constant, repetitive simulation of Acupuncture points is beneficial. 

I use these in clinic to help release muscles and relax the body.  Acu-points are located and pressure is applied with the fingers to stimulate energy flow.

‘Chopstick’ acupressure can be used with children in a fun, non-threatening treatment. I also use gentle stretches and pressure-against-resistance exercises with patients. 

Chinese Dietary Advice is based on using certain foods in Chinese medicine as they have particular energetic properties related to the 5 food flavours: Salty, Sour, Bitter, Sweet & Pungent. Foods also have the ability to heat and cool the body. Use of certain foods within the diet, either having less or more of certain foods can help support treatment.

Image of Cupping during Acupuncture without Needles Session

What to Expect from Your Acupuncture Journey

Find out more about what happens during your acupuncture session and what is involved in a course of Acupuncture treatment.

First Appointment

We explore your reasons for seeking acupuncture and gather detailed health information to tailor your treatment.
Session length: First visit 70–90 minutes, follow-ups 45-60 minutes.

Root Cause & Symptoms

We group your signs and symptoms into Patterns of Disharmony, treating both the root cause and the visible symptoms.

Individual Treatment Plan

Once the assessment is complete, we outline a personalised plan. This depends on your condition, response to treatment, and goals.

Everyone Responds Differently

Each treatment is unique to you. Progress varies depending on your condition and body’s response.

Diagnosis

We check your pulses, tongue, and may assess movement or areas of discomfort.

Frequency & Dose

Progress depends on how often you come and what’s done in each session (needles, techniques, etc.).

Reducing Symptoms

As your body heals, symptoms ease or disappear. Pain may shift before it goes.

How Many Sessions?

Most people need around 6 sessions. Acute issues may need fewer; chronic ones more.

Early Phase (Boosting Results)

We may start with 2–3 treatments per week for faster results.

Ongoing Sessions

Usually weekly at first, then spaced out as things improve. Some conditions follow set protocols:

  • Stroke (Scalp Acupuncture)
  • IVF Support
  • Labour Induction
  • Facial Acupuncture

Continued Support

If there’s progress but symptoms remain, we keep going with regular sessions.

Spaced Maintenance

Sessions move from weekly to fortnightly or monthly, depending on how you’re doing.

Discharge

Once goals are met, treatment ends.

Preventative Care

Some choose monthly or 4–6 weekly visits to stay well and prevent relapse.

Acupuncture Packages

Ready to take control of your health?

Acupuncture offers numerous benefits such as pain relief, stress reduction, and improved overall wellness. Individual responses vary, and treatment is often recommended as a course. For chronic and complex conditions, multiple courses may be necessary to achieve lasting results.

£75

/ (60 – 90 mins)

Initial Acupuncture Session

Initial Acupuncture consultation and treatment.

About the package

  • Initial consultation to gauge your needs
  • Includes initial Acupuncture treatment
  • Acupuncture for MSK Pain conditions – 6 to 8 regular treatments usually recommended
  • Female Health treatment over 3 menstrual cycles usually recommended

£50

/ (45-60 Mins)

Follow-Up Acupuncture Session

Ongoing acupuncture treatment tailored to your progress and needs.

About the package

  • Personalised treatment based on your initial consultation and response to treatment
  • Supports ongoing care and symptom management
  • Suitable for MSK pain, stress, women’s health & more

£275

/ 6x (45-60 Mins)

Acupuncture Course

A value package designed for consistent, ongoing support.

What's Included

  • 6 x in-person acupuncture treatments (45–60 mins each)
  • Ideal for chronic conditions or long-term care
  • 3 x 45 min online follow-up sessions and staged treatment plan.
  • Multiple courses may be recommended for complex or persistent issues
  • Recommended as a complete treatment course

Please Note: These sessions do NOT include:

  • Functional testing (e.g., blood, urine, or microbiome analysis)
  • Nutrigenomic or genetic trait analysis related to fertility
  • Personalised supplement advice, including for fertility, preconception, or pregnancy support
  • In-depth dietary or lifestyle planning
  • Fertility Support Acupuncture (this requires a separate, specialist package)

 

These services are beyond the scope of standard acupuncture sessions and require a dedicated consultation or appropriate package. Thank you for respecting the boundaries of clinical practice.

Acupuncture with Lucy has been something in my life that I wished I had found long ago, as it has helped me in so many ways both physically and mentally!

Acupuncture has improved the pain in my back, from an effort to get up in the mornings to a place where I am no longer a pain.

Through my acupuncture treatments my management of my anxiety and stress levels have improved, I feel so much calmer and in control of my life thanks to Lucy’s treatment and rebalancing.

Lucy embodies professionalism, kindness and care throughout every treatment. Her knowledge and enthusiasm for her subject is amazing. For someone who has never experienced acupuncture before and might be nervous, I would urge you to give Lucy a call even just for a discussion.
Female 28 yrs, Back Pain and Emotional Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are frequently asked questions about acupuncture. If you would like further explanation or information please get in touch. I am happy to answer questions by phone, email or in a free 15 minute consultation.

Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that brings a person’s energies back into balance. Typically this involves insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, scalp and ear. These points can also be stimulated with other methods such as Acupressure Massage, Moxibustion, Cupping & Gua Sha and Medical Qigong. Acupuncture allows the person’s energy, called Qi (pronounced Chee), to flow at an optimum level around the body in energy pathways called channels. There are over 360 acu-points on the body but only around 150 of these are used frequently. Needles are commonly placed in a different area from the complaint e.g. for headaches and migraines needles may go in the hands and feet.

Records confirm Acupuncture has been practised in China since at least 200BC. The more recent system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was developed in the 1950’s incorporate these ancient Acupuncture teachings. Acupuncture was popularised in the West in the early 1970’s after President Nixon’s visit to China. 

Qi is the life-force energy which flows through channels in the body, keeping us healthy when it is flowing freely and strongly. However, when Qi flow is disrupted as a result of physical trauma, emotional upset, poor diet, weather conditions, or other factors; then illness results. Stimulating specific points on the body ‘unblocks’ Qi and allows the body to return to a balanced state. 

Acupuncture is a very safe treatment. The needles used are sterile, single-use, disposable needles. I am fully qualified and spent years learning where is safe to needle and where must be avoided. I continue to train to keep my skills current. My qualifications, license and insurance are all displayed in my clinic. 

It is important to tell me about any health conditions, other treatments you are having or medications you are taking to ensure there are no contra-indications with Acupuncture treatment.

Where possible, it is advisable to wear loose, comfortable clothing. This allows access to Acupuncture points without removing clothes. Some people take shorts to change into. I advise people not to wear tights. When access to particular acu-points is necessary, some items of clothes may need to be removed. Towels are always provided to prevent exposure and preserve modesty.

Of course. If you would like somebody with you during the consultation or treatment, they can sit in with you. If you are under 18 years old, it is a licensing requirement of Highland Council that a parent / legal guardian is always present for the duration of the Acupuncture session.

Yes. Acupuncture is particularly useful to support pregnancy as it does not involve taking medication or drugs. It can be used to help treat symptoms of common pregnancy ailments such as morning sickness and nausea, and physical aches and pains, e.g. sciatica. It is important you tell me if you are trying to conceive or are pregnant; I am trained to know which acupuncture points to avoid during pregnancy.

If you want to reduce or stop your medication, this needs to be discussed with your GP. I also tell patients to tell your doctor you are receiving Acupuncture treatment.

During a treatment, you will be asked about your health. Everything you say is confidential. You will also be asked to show your tongue, and I will feel your pulse on both wrists. This may take a little while. The information gathered helps me understand the disharmonies in your body, and the findings indicate the best places to insert needles or whether to apply heat to particular areas. It is also quite normal for me to palpate or examine a specific area of the body depending on your presenting condition.

It is recommended to have something to eat about an hour or so before treatment as some people may feel light headed during or after Acupuncture. You will be given water to and advised to drink some more after treatment.

During each consultation I ask to see your tongue. I am looking at different aspects such as the colour, coat, shape and features such as marks, dots, cracks and moisture.

Tongue diagnosis provides me with information about which Patterns of Disharmony are present and your overall Acupuncture diagnosis. In summary, it helps me know the most effective way to treat you.

Every time I see you I will spend time feeling your pulse on each wrist. This provides information on Qi, Blood & Internal Organ energy. I mainly look at 3 pulse positions at 3 pulse depths.

Pulse diagnosis provides me with information about which Patterns of Disharmony are present and your overall Acupuncture diagnosis. In summary, it helps me know the most effective way to treat you.

During the initial consultation, time is spent asking questions about your presenting condition and your general health. The initial consultation takes longer than follow-up appointments. Some of these questions may appear unrelated to your condition, but all the information is gathered together and helps form an Acupuncture diagnosis called a Pattern of Disharmony. This allows me to better understand your condition, current health and the best way to treat you. Some straightforward health complaints require a less in-depth consultation.

Acupuncture appointments are conducted in a quiet, professional city centre location. You experience peaceful, relaxed treatments which last approximately 1 hour. Your initial treatment lasts up to 1½ hours and includes the first consultation.

In Acupuncture various signs and symptoms are grouped together to form a Pattern of Disharmony. Tongue diagnosis and pulse diagnosis also help build a picture of the imbalances present. These imbalances, interactions of organ systems and your environment can create illness. I spend time understanding your health different ways:

  • The 8 Principles (4 pairs of opposites: Yin and Yang, Hot and Cold, Full and Empty (or Deficiency and Excess) & Interior and Exterior)
  • The 5 Fundamental substances: Qi, (Energy) Shen (Spirit), Jing (Essence), Blood, and Jin Ye (Body fluids)

Treating this way allows me to provide individualised Acupuncture treatment that brings your body back into balance. 

I use a blended approach, integrating several acupuncture systems to best suit each individual. These include Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Five Element Acupuncture, Master Tung, Dr Tan’s Balance Method, and Western Medical Acupuncture.

At the heart of my practice is the identification and treatment of patterns of disharmony—a core principle in Chinese medicine. This framework allows me to understand imbalances in the body and develop treatments that restore harmony and promote healing.

Integrating multiple systems allows me to offer personalised, effective care that responds to both physical and energetic needs.

Here’s how I integrate various styles:

  • Master Tung Acupuncture – renowned for powerful distal point combinations and fast, effective results
  • Dr Tan’s Balance Method – ideal for balancing meridians, particularly effective in treating pain and complex cases
  • Western Medical Acupuncture – applied especially for musculoskeletal conditions, combining modern anatomical knowledge with traditional techniques.


This modern-traditional fusion enables me to deliver acupuncture that is evidence-informed, energetically attuned, and always tailored to the unique needs of each client.

I use ultra-fine needles (some as fine as a hair) that are nothing like needles used by doctors or the dentist. A brief sting sensation may be followed by a dull ache or feelings of heaviness but very often no pain is felt at all. Patients often describe the sensation as warm and tingling or a rush of energy. Most people feel relaxed and some fall asleep during the treatment. The needles are sometimes removed immediately, but are usually left in place for 20 – 30 minutes.

This very much depends upon your presenting condition. Acu-points are located all over the body and often needles are inserted into different areas than where you experience pain, discomfort, inflammation etc. You do not scar from the needles; very occasionally a small bruise may appear which disappears after a day or so. The majority of points used in clinic are Shu-points (found below your elbow and knee). I also often use points on the face, scalp, ears and sometimes on the thigh. Towels are always provided to cover you and preserve your modesty. 

The number of needles varies from treatment to treatment. This is based on the presenting condition, agreed treatment principles and your current health. I always use the least amount of Acupuncture needles to create the most positive change to your health. For the majority of treatments this is between 6 and 12 needles.

I principally use Acupuncture needles to manipulate your Qi / energy. I also incorporate the following into my Acupuncture treatment:

  • Moxibustion
  • Acu-pressure
  • Cupping
  • Gua-Sha
  • Infra-red Heat Lamp
  • Medical Qigong
  • Chinese Dietary Advice

I will advise you on the most effective treatment options for your condition. Many of the above can be used as stand alone treatments when working with needle phobic patients and young children.

The majority of people feel relaxed and calm. Some people report feeling slightly tired or drowsy after Acupuncture and it is recommended to rest. Strenuous exercise, alcohol and driving long distances should be avoided after treatment. Any slight bruising is short lived.

Acupuncture is a natural health treatment that works to rebalance your body’s energy. This may take a number of sessions and depends on your current state of health and the condition being treated. People may feel positive effects immediately, or within a day or two after treatment, but again this is very individual and depends on your presenting condition.

 For the vast majority of people Acupuncture has a positive effect. Occasionally, with certain conditions, symptoms might initially appear more extreme or exaggerated; this is often a sign of the energy moving in the body and is the beginning of a healing process. However, this passes and most people report feeling better than before Acupuncture treatment.

Almost all treatments are completely fine to have in conjunction with Acupuncture. I may recommend spacing out different treatments with Acupuncture treatment. This depends on an individual’s energy levels. Certain medications may mean that Acupuncture is not suitable; this will be fully discussed with you during your appointment.

Your personal treatment plan is discussed during the initial consultation and throughout our contact. The number of sessions required varies depending on particular conditions, how long you have experienced them, and your overall state of health before treatment.

During your initial consultation I can advise on the frequency and number of treatments that may be required. Typically for many conditions a course of 6 sessions is recommended. This is usually 2 sessions per week for 3 weeks, or 1 session per week for 6 weeks.

During this time we will discuss your progress and response to treatment and decide how best to proceed. Patients stop Acupuncture when no more treatment is necessary, however many choose to have maintenance sessions.

For patients with more straightforward, minor ailments fewer sessions are required.

Lifestyle and dietary advice may also be given to support Acupuncture treatment and help consolidate lasting change.

I started experiencing sciatic pain, so I did a google search for acupuncturists near me. Painkillers were not helping. Lucy was one of many accounts that came up, and as fate would have it, I called for a consultation. She responded very quickly, and before i knew it, i was able to book and attend my first ever acupuncture appointment.

I was expecting a painful experience with needles everywhere, but thought it couldn't be worse than the pain I was already having. I was pleasantly surprised. Lucy was so professional, welcoming, and very knowledgeable about her work. She was also able to recommend things that i could do in addition to acupuncture treatments to aid my healing. My sciatic pain was completely gone after a couple of treatments. I kept booking appointments with Lucy to treat female hormonal issues and I have seen great improvements. I can confidently say that I would absolutely recommend Lucy for anyone who isn't sure about acupuncture. You will not regret it.

Female 30 yrs, Sciatica and Hormone Balance

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Inclusivity Statement

Supporting every body

As a Fertility Support Trained practitioner, I am committed to supporting every birthing body, and all permutations of the people it takes to make a family. To using the correct Pronouns for each person who walks through the door. To recognise the unique journey taken by same-sex couples and the complex and sometimes traumatic journey that fertility work can represent to Trans and Non-binary people. To treat known egg donors and surrogates without judgement. To acknowledge the unique challenges medical racism (or even just existing in a black or brown body) can pose to people of colour, and within this, to recognise our own privilege and be open to course correction without fragility. To embrace people in bigger bodies, differently-abled bodies and people of all religions. And finally, to accept without question the lived experience of all people who walk through our doors. We aim to treat people fairly and to recognise and respond to their individual needs, experiences and aspirations. Firmly believing that human diversity strengthens and enriches our society, a Fertility Support Trained practitioner strives to provide healthcare without discrimination and with open-hearted, skilled, support.

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