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Classical acupuncture texts describe several ways of organising treatment. Here is how those ideas relate to an individual plan you can understand.

Classical acupuncture literature is rich with evocative terms. Treatment may be described as regulating, unblocking or guiding, and these words carry centuries of clinical discussion behind them.

A tradition of reasoning

These classical concepts describe a way of thinking through a case. They help explain how practitioners in the tradition approached their decisions. They do not mean that everyone who shares a symptom will receive the same points or the same type of stimulation. Two people with similar complaints may be approached quite differently.

Asking for a plain-language explanation

You are entitled to understand your plan in words that make sense to you. Ask Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, to link the proposed approach to your own experience. Which concern is being focused on? How will your response be judged over the coming visits? What would lead to a change?

No need to learn the terminology

You do not have to memorise classical vocabulary to take an active part in decisions. Your input on comfort, your goals and whether treatment still seems worthwhile is just as important as any traditional concept.

Clarifying what you hope for

Separate the symptom from the change you would value. Perhaps you want less discomfort while gardening, a better sense of what is happening in your body or guidance on when to seek another opinion. Christine can describe the markers she will watch over the next few visits and what kind of response would lead her to try something different.

Visiting the Lane Cove clinic

Acupuncture with Christine is available at the Lane Cove clinic, which suits anyone based in Lane Cove, Greenwich or Riverview. If classical theory intrigues you, feel free to ask about it, and if it does not, the conversation can stay entirely practical. This article is a general introduction rather than advice for any individual.