Acupuncture Practitioner - Charity Carleton
Charity studied Acupuncture at the University of Technology, Sydney, and Victoria University, Melbourne, graduating with a Bachelor of Health Science (Honours) - Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – Acupuncture, 2001. This degree focused on the principles, knowledge & practical skills fundamental to traditional TCM treatment, whilst also encompassing study in western medical science; human anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology (disease), and pharmacology.
Many years of practice, at clinics in Melbourne and Brisbane, have brought Charity experience in treating a wide range of conditions.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the use of very fine needles inserted at specific bodily points in order to treat illness and prevent disease.
What does Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture successfully treats a wide range of ailments.
The following list was compiled by the World Health Organisation:
Musculo-Skeletal
back pain, sciatica, neck pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, sports injuries
Respiratory / Ear, Nose, Throat
common cold, asthma, sinusitis, sore throat, conjunctivitis, meniere's disease
Neurological
headaches, migraines, facial pains, loss of function
Women's Health Complaints
period pain, irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, menopause symptoms, sweats, mood swings, absent periods, fertility, morning sickness
Digestion / Urogenital
stomach pain, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhoea, ulcers, constipation, bloating
Skin
excema, acne, rash itching, dermatitis
Emotional
anxiety, depression, stress, fatigue, sleep disorders, addiction withdrawal
How does Acupuncture work?
An energy network flows through the body. An imbalance of this flow results in illness, pain or other symptoms of disease. The energy flow can be re-balanced using Acupuncture. Acupuncture treatment affects metabolism, circulation, immune response, digestive activity, enzymes, hormones, nuero-transmitters, the muscular system (etc).
What does it feel like? / Does it hurt?
The sensation of needle insertion is very mild. In some cases, the patient is not even aware that a needle has been used. The acupuncture needles are smooth, rounded to a tip, and are very thin (around 0.25 mm), unlike injection needles. Some patients experience a sensation around the point. During and after treatment, many patients feel deeply relaxed and at ease. Studies have shown this to be due to increased levels of endorphins coinciding with acupuncture treatment.
Where does it come from?
Acupuncture is a unique system of traditional Chinese medicine with a written history dating over 2000 years. The traditional medicine of China also incorporates herbal formulas, cupping, moxibustion and exercise therapy.
Herbal Formulas
Chinese herbal medicines have been carefully formulated for the treatment of specific TCM patterns. The medicines consist mostly of foods, dried fruits, roots, flower and plant matter. A formula is commonly taken for 3-6+ months as pills, granules or tea.
Cupping
Cupping involves the use of small glass hemispheres which are heated inside and then placed upon the body. The heat creates a partial vacuum which draws up the skin and underlying tissues. This brings to the area an increase in blood flow and can ease congestion and pain.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is the warming of an acupuncture point by the heat produced from burning moxa, (the herb, Artemisia Vulgaris). This may be done using a lighted moxa roll held a few cms above the skin, or by a cap of moxa which is set upon the acupuncture needle, or by a moxa cone which is placed directly on the skin and removed before burning down.
Exercise Therapy
Exercise forms, such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong, were developed to maintain a strong and healthy flow of energy throughout the body.
How many treatments do I need?
Acupuncture is best administered as a course of treatments. Acute conditions, such as an ankle sprain, are best treated two or three times a week, immediately after the injury, with treatments then spaced out to one per week, until full strength and healing has been achieved. Chronic conditions, such as digestive disorders, headaches, or long-term muscular pains, are best treated once or twice per week for longer periods.
Significant results can often be gained from only a few treatments. However, full resolution of the underlying pattern, will allow for longer periods of health. It is also common to seek treatment during change of season, or when feeling tired or stressed, in order to prevent disease.
What happens during treatment?
On the first consultation, the practitioner will review the patient’s medical history. This includes considering major illnesses, surgeries, medications, sleep patterns, diet, immune responses and the specific nature and location of any pain. The practitioner also checks the patient’s tongue and pulse. This information provides significant details to diagnosis of the patient’s overall condition. From diagnosis, acupuncture points and/or herbal formula are chosen to best treat the patient. During acupuncture treatment the patient rests for 20 minutes.
What are the needles made of?
Acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel, are pre-sterilised and disposable.
Any other questions?
Please email: or phone (07) 3229 2363
Health Fund Cover / Cost?
Initial consultation fee : $75 Follow-up appointments: $60 Concession rates: $65 / $50 Rebates are available from Private Health Funds under "extras cover". The health funds offering rebates for Acupuncture are many and include Medibank Private, MBF, HCF, Australian Unity, Manchester Unity, NIB, NRMA, Teachers Union, HBA, HBF, Grand United and Aust. Regional Healthcare Group.
When can I get an appointment?
Acupuncture clinic appointments
9am - 4pm Mondays & Wednesdays
10am - 7pm Tuesdays & Thursdays.
Tel: (07) 3229 2363
Email: acupuncture@holistic.com.au
