During your treatment you may receive a number of other therapies either alongside or in place of acupuncture. 

Moxibustion (moxa) is the burning of the dried herb mugwort or atemesia vulgaris. The herb is made into cones and either placed on the ends of the acupuncture needles or directly on the skin. Alternatively, moxa sticks or rolls can be lighted and passed forwards and backwards over the skin.

Moxa has a tonifying (strengthening) effect on the body. It may be used over areas of local pain, particularly if the symptoms are alleviated by warmth.

Cupping is used to move stagnant Qi and expel the pathogenic factors that cause this stagnation. Glass or wooden cups are placed over the stagnant areas and a suction effect is created by burning the air in the cups and quickly placing them on the body.

Irrespective of the particular combination of techniques and therapies used in your treatment you should avoid heavy meals, alcohol and coffee for at least an hour before your appointment.