Gift vouchers

What they are receiving, exactly

Worth spelling out, because people who have never had acupuncture often imagine something quite different from what happens.

A first appointment is about an hour and most of it is talking: when the problem started, what makes it better or worse, how they sleep and eat, what they take. Then an examination, then treatment if it is appropriate. The needles are much finer than the ones used for blood tests, and most people feel a dull heaviness rather than pain.

Nobody is left in a room not knowing what is happening. If the person you are buying for is nervous about needles, tell them that — it is the part that puts people off, and it is usually based on imagining the wrong kind of needle.

How the voucher works

It holds a value that comes off the appointment cost. Not tied to a treatment plan — what they need is worked out when they come in.

Validity

Three years minimum from purchase, as Australian Consumer Law requires for gift cards sold since November 2019. Expiry printed on the voucher, no later fees for using it.

What is not included

Herbal medicine, which is never supplied without a consultation — what is appropriate depends on their history and their medication, and that cannot be decided in advance by whoever buys a gift.

If they have a health condition

Still fine, and they should mention it when they book. Pregnancy, blood thinners, a pacemaker and a few others change how treatment is done rather than whether it happens.

Ordering

Ring 0410 699 065 with the recipient's name and the amount.