Take a look at our eight top tips for choosing the best acupuncturist.

They Have the Right Credentials

There are several acupuncture regulatory bodies in the UK. The best-known one is the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC). It's the most extensive professional and self-regulatory body for traditional acupuncturists in the UK, with more than 3,000 members. Their website has a search facility for patients to find the best acupuncture based in London or close to their home.

Anyone looking to find an acupuncturist to treat a particular concern can also check if their chosen acupuncturist is registered with a relevant organisation in that field. For example, for sports injuries, check the register of the Institute for Sports and Remedial Massage (ISRM).

A practitioner should be happy to show their accreditation and proof of training.

They Listen

The best acupuncturist based in London or elsewhere will listen to a patient’s concerns and take a holistic approach to their treatment and care. Questions asked should include information about medical history, the severity of the problem(s), and questions about the patient’s lifestyle to gain a comprehensive picture of how the body is working.

Anyone looking for treatment, be it for fertility issues, stress, sports injury, menstrual problems, or erectile dysfunction wants to feel they're being listened to and treated as a person. No one wants to feel like just another client walking through the door.

They Answer Questions

For someone who's new to acupuncture or unfamiliar with what it is, a professional acupuncturist will be prepared to answer any questions or concerns a patient may have, for example:

• What is acupuncture?

• Does acupuncture hurt?

• Is acupuncture safe?

• How does acupuncture work?

Finding an acupuncture practice that is transparent in its approach to treatment is an integral part of finding a safe environment for patients. This includes an acupuncturist who explains the process to patients, especially someone who may be afraid of needles. A sensitive acupuncturist will ensure that patients feel:

• Listened to

• That their fears are addressed

• Calm and relaxed

• That their trust their acupuncturist

They Have Great Facilities

No one wants to be treated in an unwelcoming, grubby or uncomfortable space. Depending upon what type of environment a person feels most comfortable with, it’s always worth checking out the practitioner’s website for photos or information about the treatment rooms. Alternatively, an in-person visit to the clinic to make an appointment is a way to get a sense of the practice and how welcoming it is.

They’re Well Reviewed

There’s nothing like the positive endorsement and recommendations of others. A quick Google search will show up reviews of the acupuncture practice in question as well as reviews on the practitioner's own website. It is always worth researching reviews thoroughly alongside checking that an acupuncturist is registered and has the facilities, training and specialisms needed to treat areas of concern.

They Provide An Integrated Approach

Alongside acupuncture, a patient may benefit from other treatments so that he/she is receiving rounded and balanced care. For example, Bodywork, deep tissue massage, Pilates, and Chinese Medicine can sometimes be used alongside acupuncture.

They’re Transparent

A professional acupuncture practice will be open and transparent about treatment times and costs, and their website will reflect that. No patient wants to be surprised by hidden and unexpected costs to their treatment. It’s crucial that when choosing an acupuncturist, they are clear about the treatment plan, the appointment length and the exact cost of each visit and any follow-up visits.

They’re Conveniently Located

A practice location and its opening hours are just as important as the acupuncturist themselves. Finding a practice that's easy to travel to and from work and/or home will be part of the decision-making process, as well will its proximity to regular public transport. This is particularly true for anyone working long or anti-social hours. Practice opening hours is also a critical factor to consider, as are its access facilities.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best acupuncture in London doesn’t have to be complicated or confusing if a patient follows the above top tips. A professional practice will respond quickly to queries and offer patients a convenient date and time slot.