If you’re considering acupuncture as part of your treatment for pain, tension, or stress-related symptoms, it’s natural to wonder whether the practice is regulated — and whether it’s safe.
Acupuncture, though rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has become increasingly accepted in Western healthcare settings, including physiotherapy clinics like The Green Clinic. However, the way it is regulated in the UK can sometimes be confusing to patients. In this blog, we’ll clarify how acupuncture is overseen in the UK, what standards exist to protect patients, and how The Green Clinic ensures you receive safe, effective treatment from trained professionals.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing, relieve pain, and improve overall wellbeing. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal issues, tension, chronic conditions, and as part of rehabilitation plans. At The Green Clinic, acupuncture is offered as a complementary therapy alongside physiotherapy, Pilates, and massage.
While acupuncture is widely practised across the UK, it is important to note that it is not regulated by law in the same way as conventional medical practices. There is no single statutory body that governs all acupuncturists in the UK, meaning that in theory, anyone could practise acupuncture without formal qualifications. This makes it vital for patients to seek out practitioners who are professionally registered with recognised bodies and who follow strict standards for hygiene, safety, and ethical practice.
We are registered with the highly respected British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS), which trains regulated healthcare professionals — such as doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists — in Western Medical Acupuncture, ensuring that practitioners are properly trained, insured, and follow evidence-based methods.
At The Green Clinic, acupuncture is provided exclusively by Chartered Physiotherapists who are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and are members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). This means you are treated by a fully regulated healthcare professional with advanced training in anatomy, physiology, and clinical decision-making. Our practitioners have also undergone additional accredited training in acupuncture techniques, particularly for musculoskeletal and pain-related conditions.
By choosing The Green Clinic, you can be confident that your acupuncture treatment is delivered by a highly qualified professional who understands the relationship between acupuncture points and your body’s structure and function. Treatments are evidence-informed, safe, and tailored to your individual health needs — never a generic approach.
We follow strict hygiene procedures at all times. All needles used during acupuncture sessions are sterile, single-use, and disposed of immediately after treatment in line with UK health regulations. Your practitioner will always explain the process beforehand, discuss your goals and concerns, and obtain informed consent. You will never be pressured into treatment, and you are welcome to ask questions or decline at any stage.
#When delivered by physiotherapists, acupuncture is often used to manage pain, reduce inflammation, support muscle relaxation, and promote natural healing. It may be recommended as part of a broader treatment plan, rather than used in isolation. At The Green Clinic, our approach is to blend traditional and modern methods to achieve the best outcomes for each client.
So, while acupuncture itself is not regulated by statute in the UK, choosing a regulated healthcare professional — such as a physiotherapist trained in acupuncture — offers significant peace of mind. It ensures your treatment is not only safe and hygienic but also clinically appropriate and supported by current medical knowledge.
In terms of cost, acupuncture at The Green Clinic is priced as follows:
- Initial Assessment (1 hour): £120 – £150
- Follow-Up Session (45 minutes): £90 – £110
Prices vary depending on whether the appointment is during weekday, evening, or Sunday hours. Every session includes time for consultation, needling, and post-treatment advice. Your practitioner will monitor your response carefully, and adjustments will be made to your plan depending on how your body responds.
If you’re uncertain whether acupuncture is right for you, we invite you to contact The Green Clinic and speak with one of our experienced physiotherapists. We’re happy to discuss your symptoms and goals, and guide you through the most appropriate treatment options. Your health, safety, and comfort are always our highest priority.
To book an acupuncture session or to speak with a Chartered Physiotherapist about whether this approach might support your recovery, get in touch with us today.
The Green Clinic is based in Edgware, with easy access from Mill Hill, Stanmore, and the surrounding areas and free parking.
