Does acupuncture hurt?

It is normal to feel a mild tingle or dull ache as the acupuncturist adjusts the needle. This sensation is known as deqi. Lots of patients describe it as good pain or a dull ache. If you do feel in any discomfort please inform your acupuncturist who will able to adjust or remove that particular needle. Acupuncture needles are so fine that many people don’t feel them being inserted. While the needles are in place, many people feel relaxed.

What conditions is acupuncture good for?

Many people in Bristol have sought help with some of the conditions below. Acupuncture is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions, including: Chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting Dental pain Fibromyalgia Headaches, including tension headaches and migraines Labor pain Lower back pain Neck pain Osteoarthritis Menstrual cramps Respiratory disorders, such as allergic rhinitis Tennis elbow

ACUPUNCTURE IN BRISTOL

Acupuncture in Bristol - Expert Treatment at Two Clinics

Q: What is the difference between acupressure and acupuncture?

In acupressure, manual pressure using parts of the hands such as fingertips is applied to the acupoints. Pressure can also be applied using elbows, knuckles, forearm etc. In acupuncture, this pressure is applied using extremely thin needles that are strategically placed on certain parts of your body.

Over 10 years helping Bristol patients with pain, stress and long-term health concerns. Clinics in Clifton and Cotham.

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Free 15-min consultation

10+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

BRITISH ACUPUNCTURE COUNCIL REGISTERED

5-STAR RATED

2 BRISTOL CLINICS

EXPERT ACUPUNCTURE IN BRISTOL

Bristol Acupuncture with Ben Tolson

As an experienced acupuncturist with over 10 years of practice in Bristol, I take a holistic approach to your health. I believe the mind, body, and spirit are all connected and that true wellbeing comes from addressing all of them.

Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. This stimulates the body's natural healing response, improves circulation, and helps restore balance. It is a safe, evidence-informed treatment with a broad range of applications.

When you book with Ben Tolson Therapies, I take time to understand your concerns and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs whether you're dealing with chronic pain, stress, or simply want to improve your overall wellbeing.

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Conditions I Treat with Acupuncture in Bristol

I regularly help Bristol patients with a wide range of conditions, including:

Back and neck pain

Anxiety and stress

Fertility concerns

Menstrual cramps

Labour pain

Allergic rhinitis

Migraines and headaches

Osteoarthritis

Fibromyalgia

Tennis elbow

Labour pain

Chemotherapy-related nausea

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How Does Acupuncture Work?

This is a question I get asked daily. Most people are curious about how it works.

WESTERN BIOMEDICAL UNDERSTANDING

Modern research shows acupuncture can affect many of the body's systems, including the nervous system, hormone outputs, circulation, and immune response. Key effects include:

Increased release of natural pain-relieving opioids
Improved joint lubrication and reduced inflammation
Reduced anxiety by lowering Cholecystokinin levels
Enhanced immune system response
Anti-inflammatory effect via raised cortisol (ACTH)
Analgesic effect through the gate theory of pain
Reduced brain activity associated with pain perception

TRADITIONAL CHINESE UNDERSTANDING

Traditional acupuncture focuses on the whole person, not just the condition. According to Chinese medicine, health depends on the body's vital energy (Qi) flowing freely through 12 main channels. When that flow is disrupted, illness follows. By inserting fine needles at specific acupuncture points, I help restore that balance and trigger the body's own healing process.

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What to Expect from Your Bristol Acupuncture Appointment

1

Free Consultation

Book a free 15-minute consultation. Tell me about your concerns. I'll ask about your medical history and lifestyle to understand the root of the problem.

2

Physical Examination

Where needed, I'll assess the problem areas and explain my findings. Together we'll agree a tailored treatment plan.

3

Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture treatment: I use specialist techniques targeting specific areas. Fine needles are inserted and left for 2–30 minutes. Sometimes low-voltage electrical stimulation is used, particularly for chronic tendonitis or musculoskeletal problems.

4

Aftercare Advice

I'll recommend practical steps to support recovery between sessions, including hydration, rest, and any relevant lifestyle or dietary advice.

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What Bristol Patients Say About Ben Tolson

"I went to Ben with a slightly apprehensive attitude to acupuncture, unsure if it would help me - but willing to try anything after years of problematic shoulder tension. He made me feel very at ease and happy with the procedure and the results were just amazing - within a moderately small amount of treatments my shoulder is feeling 10x better. Thank you!"

Sian

Why Choose Ben Tolson for Acupuncture in Bristol?

Ben is one of Bristol's most experienced acupuncturists. Here's why patients trust him:

Over 10 years of clinical experience in Bristol
BSc in Acupuncture from Kingston University (studied at the College of Chinese Integrated Medicine)
Holistic approach — treating the person, not just the symptom
Two convenient Bristol clinic locations
Personalised treatment plans — every case is assessed individually
5-star rated for results, communication, and professional service

Dry Needling for Manual Therapists

Ben is also the co-author of Dry Needling For Manual Therapists. The book is a comprehensive and practical handbook aimed at practitioners using medical acupuncture for treating musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. Perfect for use in clinic, it includes fully-illustrated instruction on MSK medical acupuncture and electro-acupuncture points and techniques, guidance on safety and treatment planning and overviews of the theory behind the practice.

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Acupuncture Pricing in Bristol

First session: £50 (includes initial consultation)

Follow-up sessions: £45

Get a free no-obligation 15-minute consultation before you book to make sure acupuncture is right for you.

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Frequently asked questions

Acupuncture is used to help with a range of conditions including back pain, migraines, anxiety, osteoarthritis, fertility concerns, menstrual cramps, digestive problems, tennis elbow, and more.

What is the difference between acupressure and acupuncture? Acupressure uses manual pressure (fingertips, elbows, knuckles) on acupoints. Acupuncture uses very fine needles placed at the same points. Both work on the same principles — acupuncture simply allows more precise stimulation.