Quite a few patients have asked me recently -how often should I come back once my 'main complaint' has improved. I usually say that there is no simple answer - everyone is different. As rule of thumb it is a good idea to come back if you feel you are beginning to slide into ill health - by which I mean it is better not to wait until the symptoms are so horrible you feel you must do something about them. It is easier to deal with things earlier on.

I would also say that it is a good idea to see an acupuncturist when the seasons change. In Five Element theory people are part of nature and respond to the energetic changes that occur with the seasons. The approach of autumn or the onset of winter for can effect people emotionally. Others wilt in the summer. People often find the transitional times between seasons difficult and as a practitoner I have noticed that there seem to be more blocks and imbalances on the pulses at these times of year. It is a good idea to have a 'tune up' - get the pulses evened up. I go to see my own acupuncturist seasonally and I feel the better for it.