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Acupuncturist: Job description and activities

Job description

An acupuncturist is a complementary health practitioner who takes a holistic approach to the maintenance of health and the management of disease with a focus on improving overall wellbeing.

Acupuncture is an Ancient Chinese holistic therapy based on the theory that the body depends on life energy, known as Qi, being in balance. Acupuncturists correct any imbalances through inserting fine needles into acupuncture points, thus maintaining or restoring good health and wellbeing

Correct manipulation of Qi can restore good health and treat a range of emotional and physical conditions, such as:

• musculo-skeletal disorders;
• respiratory and circulatory disorders;
• gastrointestinal disorders;
• gynaecological disorders;
• neurological and stress-related disorders;
• the relief of pain and allergies.

Typical work activities

Acupuncturists conduct one-to-one consultations with their patients, using their skills and knowledge to treat a wide range of health problems.

The first consultation may last up to an hour and a half to allow the acupuncturist to take a detailed case history before making a diagnosis and beginning treatment. Subsequent sessions may take 45 minutes to an hour. The duration of the treatment programme varies depending on the severity of the problem. Some patients may require only a few sessions, while others may need 20 or more.

Tasks typically involve:

• making a diagnosis and devising a personalised treatment plan;
• taking a detailed case history, which typically involves questioning patients about their condition, all aspects of their physical and emotional health and history, lifestyle and diet as well as sometimes taking their blood pressure;
• taking a pulse and examining the tongue to aid diagnosis;
• explaining the diagnosis and treatment to the patient and responding to their questions and concerns;
• treating by inserting fine needles into the skin at particular locations to stimulate the energy flow along meridians (energy channels) and the body’s own healing response;
• incorporating other treatments, such as moxibustion (burning herbs to warm insertion points), electro-acupuncture (stimulating insertion points with small electric currents), acupressure (to loosen and relax muscles), and cupping;
• assessing patient progress through questioning and examination as well as reviewing treatment plans if necessary;
• keeping patient and financial records;
• organising and promoting your practice.

AGCAS

Written by Lucie Johnston, Stirling University

Last updated:

April 2009

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