Question 1

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture works by balancing energy within the body. When there is a lack of communication to a certain part of your body, difficulties occur. Restoring the communication that was lost helps the entire system restore balance, and ultimately results in self-healing long after treatment has concluded.

Question 2

Are acupuncture needles sterile and safe?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture needles are made from stainless steel. They are sterilised in sealed packages and are for single use only.

Question 3

Is acupuncture painful?

Accepted Answer

Don’t let the idea of needles put you off — most patients barely feel a thing as the hair-thin needles go in. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of sensation as the needles are inserted. Once the needles are in, most patients experience a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing that lasts for many hours after the treatment.

Question 4

Are the effects of acupuncture symptomatic only?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture does not just provide symptomatic relief. Many conditions are permanently cured in a short time, while others may need extended treatment to realise long-term or permanent healing.

Question 5

Is Chinese medicine reliable?

Accepted Answer

Chinese herbal medicine uses over 4,000 species of plants, in combination or on their own, to help various conditions. What makes it unique is its philosophy: each herb has a particular nature — cold, hot, warm or cool — as well as a taste: bitter, sweet, spicy, salty, bland or astringent. Over 3,000 years of clinical observation has refined its effective use for many diseases. Because herbal medicines are used in their full form, they are often more stable than synthetic or extracted drugs that the body is not adequately equipped to process. Chinese herbs very seldom have side effects.

Question 6

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your first visit begins with a consultation and traditional tongue and pulse diagnosis. This helps Dr. Purtill isolate the core imbalance behind your symptoms, so treatment — acupuncture, cupping and/or herbal medicine — targets the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the condition and how long you’ve had it. Acute problems often respond within a few sessions; chronic or long-standing conditions usually need a course of treatment. Dr. Purtill will outline a plan after your first diagnosis.

Question 8

How much does a session cost?

Accepted Answer

An in-practice session at the Hout Bay clinic is R750. An outcall session, where Dr. Purtill comes to your home or office, is R1800. Herbal medicine is prescribed as needed.

Question 9

How is Chinese herbal medicine prescribed?

Accepted Answer

Herbs are available in two forms: convenient tablets, or raw-herb formulas individualised to your diagnosis and adjusted as your treatment progresses.

Question 10

Can I have acupuncture alongside conventional treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Chinese medicine and acupuncture have become an important ally of western medicine, including in fertility and IVF support. Let Dr. Purtill know about any medication or treatment you are currently receiving.

Question 11

What is cupping?

Accepted Answer

Cupping uses glass cups to create gentle suction on the skin. This lifts and stretches the muscle, drawing fresh, oxygenated blood through the area. It is mainly used for muscular tension and pain.

Question 12

Do you offer home visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Outcall sessions are available across Cape Town for R1800 — ideal if you have limited mobility, are recovering, or prefer treatment at home or at the office.

Acupuncture & Chinese medicine, answered

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