Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM is a holistic approach to the diagnoses, treatment and prevention of disease. It is one of the oldest medical systems practised around the world today and believed to date back over 2,000 years ago in China. It is believed that disease is caused by disruptions in the flow of the bodies energy or Qi. So Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points under the skin to release the Qi, thereby improving the body’s functions and promoting self healing. Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional medicine and has very few contraindications.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works in several ways:
Meridian System: Acupuncture points lie on meridians, channels through which Qi flows.
Needle Stimulation: Thin needles are inserted into these points to correct imbalances and promote self-healing.
Nervous System Activation: Acupuncture is believed to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, enhancing blood flow and triggering the body’s natural painkillers.
Why Should I Have Acupuncture?
If you have an ongoing physical or emotional condition that it seems conventional medicine and other therapies are ineffective at alleviating?
You have tried all manner of treatments to try and get relief from pain and other symptoms?
You have a chronic illness or recurring pain related to injury?
You have a sports injury and want to get back to full fitness?
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
- Consultation: Assessment of symptoms and overall health.
- Needle Placement: Small, sterile needles are inserted. Slight tingling or pressure may be felt.
- Relaxation: Needles are left in place for 20–40 minutes while the patient relaxes.
Our practitioner stays with the patient throughout the session, so if the patient is feeling nervous, the practitioner is on hand for support.
About The Acupuncturist
Our Practitioner – Sharon Cawthorne is a fully qualified Acupuncturist with a BSc (Hons) Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.
She has over 17 years clinical experience, and has undergone in depth additional training in Muscular Skeletal problems and pain management for conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, Knee Pain, Back Pain, Neck Pain, Arthritis, Headaches / Migraines, Shoulder Pain, and Fibromyalgia.
Sharon has also done extensive training with digestive issues, and in auricular therapy to help with stress and anxiety conditions, so she has the experience and expertise to ensure that her patients receive the best treatment and experience.
Safety and Effectiveness
Performed by a fully qualified licensed professional, acupuncture is generally safe with minimal side effects.
Research supports its efficacy for various conditions, though scientific understanding of its mechanisms continues to evolve.
To Book, select the appropriate appointment below.
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After having a really bad experience with a chiropodist a few weeks ago (very painful procedure, unprofessional and left with more issues with nails that I'd never had problems with before), I approached Sharon and Alan for expert advice and to book an appointment as I'd been left really quite upset by the other firm I saw previously. Sharon was incredible on the phone and immediately put my mind at ease!!! She understood my pain sensitivity due to my stage 4 endometriosis and raynauds and gave me great advice on how to deal with the painful nail until I could see Alan. I actually cried once I put the phone down because it was just lovely to speak to a professional that understood why I'd felt so upset by the other experience! I then saw Alan today and he was incredible!! Gave me so much great advice, sorted my nail (painless...and anyone who knows me knows that I struggle with toes and nails due to very bad sensitivity!!) and gave me things to do to ease my plantar fasciitis which flares due to my daily exercise and dancing. I had no idea my feet turn at 90° rather than 45° of most people! This was causing the hard skin on outer edge of toes. Me and my husband found it all extremely informative and actually really interesting!! We're planning to return to go for the 3d scanning to get personalised insoles at some point. Alan and Sharon, I honestly cannot thank you enough for restoring my faith!! Thank you both so much xx
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Jenny Dowling
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I have only been a few times to see Alan but I feel looked after. The time spent there is very pleasant. The surroundings make me feel relaxed. Thank you xx
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Sonia Rodgers
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I finally got round to seeing a professional about a stubborn foot problem and so glad I did. I was given a diagnosis and I'm optimistic on the plan going forward. Very friendly, informative and offered good advice. I have no immediate need to return but if I have any problems in the future, I would deffinately return. Thank you.
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Greg Dick
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Alan provided a thorough and very professional assessment using the latest scanning and analysing technology. I left with a clear diagnosis and a set of prescription orthotics on order. An excellent friendly service. Thank you.
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Brian Laking
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This was a very good experience could ask any questions and got answers that we could understand showed us what was happening and what was wrong but took time to explane everything they did and where very kind and welcoming put us at ease thank you
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Karen James
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Made to feel very welcome and relaxed as explained treatment in detail, made to feel at ease too, would recommend, thankyou Alan, see you next time thanks
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Paula M
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I had a great experience at the Podiatry & Gait Clinic in Middlesbrough. The team is incredibly professional, welcoming, and knowledgeable. From the moment I walked in, I felt at ease — everything was clearly explained.
The podiatrist took the time to assess foot and help with an issue.
It’s clear that they genuinely care about their patients and go above and beyond to make sure you leave feeling better and more confident. I’d highly recommend this clinic to anyone dealing with foot, sports injuries, or looking for expert advice. Highly recommend!
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Anna Kitching
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After researching several Podiatrist’s and having negative experiences we decided to choose Footman. This experience was 5 star with the most caring and compassionate staff. The knowledge of their profession was excellent and everything was explained properly. If you are a nervous / anxious patient then there is no need to worry about using this service. We would recommend to anyone and certainly the business deserves 5 stars. One happy patient one happy toe.
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