Acupressure Massage
in Bristol

Acupressure Massage at our Bristol Clinic

Acupressure massage (known as Tuina in Chinese) is an important component of the treatment that we offer at our clinic in Bristol. It is a form of Chinese manual therapy that comprises one of the four main branches of traditional Chinese medicine. In acupressure massage we use the same channels and points that are stimulated with acupuncture, but use our fingers rather than needles to do the work. Acupressure is used to help with issues of an internal nature as well as musculoskeletal problems.

Depending on your situation, acupressure massage at our Bristol clinic may focus on the local area that you need help with or may focus on the channels as they run through larger areas of your body. During these sessions I use fingers, knuckles, palms, and elbows to apply pressure to the channels and points indicated by your condition. I may also talk you through ‘sinew stretches’ that aim to release deeper blocks, or simple breathing exercises that can help with relaxation and release.

Simple techniques that can lead to emotional and physical change.

Kirsten HarrisKirsten Harris
20:48 19 Jun 22
Andrew at True Fortune was fantastic. I'd never had acupuncture before, and went as it had been recommended to me to do alongside IVF. Andrew held the space with sensitivity and expertise - always taking the time to explain what he was doing and why. I really appreciated his calm, kind approach, tailored to my particular situation. And I'm now 37 weeks pregnant 🙂 I'd strongly recommend him to anyone considering acupuncture, and particularly for fertility/IVF issues
Ruth WilesRuth Wiles
11:42 11 May 22
I went to Andrew for Acupressure for my sciatica. I hadn't had it before but it was really effective A proper treatment. In the past I have tried multiple Chiropractors and Thai Massage but this will be my first port of call if it flairs up again. Thank you very much!
C LC L
18:45 25 Apr 22
Andrew is a professional, attentive and caring acupuncturist.The premises are nice and relaxing and Andrew listens to your problems.My health issues at present are a little complex, but my consultations with Andrew, his knowledge of the body and his treatment protocol including bodywork, nutrition advice and breathing exercises have been extremely beneficial to me and have resulted in both temporary and more permanent improvement of my symptoms.I will continue to use Andrew and his practice regularly as a viable treatment.
Donna GrantDonna Grant
07:20 09 Apr 22
Andrew was recommended to me through a friend, and I began seeing him last year. Acupuncture is a treatment I’ve found works well for me and since moving to Bristol I was on the look out for a good therapist. I have found the treatment Andrew provides is very effective for keeping me well and fine tuned! I have dermatitis on my hands and usually becomes inflamed during the winter months. Although not totally removed, I noticed significant reduced symptoms and my hand is are much more comfortable. Since having the treatment I also felt I have more energy even though I have a young child and a business these can be demanding and tiring. Andrew is a patient listener, who takes time to understand me and I get the impression he is very thorough. He approach is kind, gentle and he his knowledge of acupuncture is extensive. He is clearly passionate about what he does to help peoples mental and physical well-being. Highly recommend.
Catriona MundleCatriona Mundle
11:37 26 Aug 21
Strong, gentle and effective: Andy Wormald's rare and special combination of tuina and acupuncture succeeded in releasing my frozen shoulder (and improving my mood) , after osteopathy, massage and (extremely painful) physiotherapy had all failed. Highly recommended.
Stuart SimStuart Sim
15:36 25 Aug 21
As both a sceptic of alternative medicine and not particularly keen on needles, acupuncture should be at the bottom of my list of treatments to try. Luckily I decided to come for some sessions with Andy and that perspective has totally changed! I've had long-term lower back issues due to an injury at work and have tried many different treatments. I booked in for three sessions with Andy and was blown away at the difference I felt after them. He was really thorough in his initial assessment, and we agreed on a varied course of massage and needles, as well as some more hollistic advice to take home. His calming demeanour kept me calm throughout and I actually sort of enjoyed the sessions, to my surprise.I have previously been in near-constant lower back pain and this has now reduced to just when I've done more strenuous activities. I'll definitely be doing more sessions in the future to see if this can improve further!
Emma SnaggeEmma Snagge
17:11 26 Jan 20
Andrew is a wonderful teacher. l enjoyed learning the TaiChi 13 and experienced real moments of stillness and silence in the standing and sitting meditations. Looking forward to part 2!
Barbara ConwayBarbara Conway
08:26 23 Jan 20
Andrew's Workshop was an excellent day. I enjoyed it all and would like to say that it is like a moving meditation, very graceful and peaceful, allowing you to bring harmony into your personal self. The day was well attended and it was also good to meet like-minded people. Highly recommended. Barbara
John SkeffingtonJohn Skeffington
23:33 22 Jan 20
I attended a Qigong & Tai Chi Thirteen (part 1) workshop that Andrew ran. The workshop was very well organised. Andrew created a very relaxed and comfortable learning environment. It was clear from his explanations that he has a great depth of knowledge about what he is teaching. Andrew explained the movements clearly and ensured that everyone, in a mixed ability group, was able to enjoy the experience and improve their practice.
r fr f
17:33 26 Nov 19
Andrew is an amazing teacher with a lot of experience to share. I feel much more energetic and focused after his classes. I highly recommend him!
Ehsan SaloutEhsan Salout
10:13 28 Aug 19
Andrew is a great teacher. I've been practicing Tai Chi with Andrew over 5 month and I can't recommend him more. Her is very knowledgeable and he goes into details of each movement very precisely. I've been practicing marshal arts for many years and along the way had practiced a few different style of Qigong/ Tai Chi. But I feel so connected to the style that Andrew teaches. it has changed my life for good.
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Benefits of Acupressure Massage

Acupressure operates on the same fundamental principles as acupuncture and so can be used to help with many of the same conditions. In my own training I have studied methods for helping with aches and pains, headaches and migraines, digestive disorders, anxiety, depression, asthma, period pains, and menopausal issues.

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Supplementary Treatments​

In addition to acupressure techniques, you might also receive some of the supplementary treatments associated with acupuncture. This could include moxa, cupping, scraping, qi transmission, dietary advice, and qigong exercises. I will always discuss my treatment plans with you, and ensure that you are happy before we proceed with anything.

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Lady Being Questioned

The Initial Consultation

Acupressure is a form of therapeutic bodywork, and as such sessions at our Bristol clinic are based on a thorough examination of the presenting condition. Much like with acupuncture, at your first appointment I will need to investigate your current situation, read your pulse and check your tongue, and may also palpate various muscles, channels and acupuncture points in order to make a full treatment plan. Subsequent visits will only require a brief enquiry to find out what has changed.

Acupressure & Acupuncture

When called for, and if you are happy to do so, I will often combine acupressure and acupuncture. This is an excellent way to improve the efficacy of your sessions, and should lead to faster and better results. For those not interested in needles, acupressure alone still offers a wonderful opportunity to benefit from traditional Chinese medicine.

Client with Moxa on Needles in Knee
Client Lying Under Blanket for Clothed Massage

What to Wear

Acupressure is performed through clothing so there is no need to remove your clothes. It is best if you can wear a single layer of thin clothing and avoid denim jeans as it is very hard to feel anything through this thick fabric. Supplementary techniques such as therapeutic oils, acupuncture, moxa and cupping may require access to more of your body, but here we can use a gown or sheet as needed.

Acupressure Information

This Healthline website summarises research into conditions that may be benefited by acupressure massage. Their list includes blood circulation, neck pain, low back pain, depression, lactation, osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, foot issues from diabetes, and quality of life in cancer patients.

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This Acupuncture Massage College website describes some of the different methods used in acupressure massage, as well as some of the health benefits.

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This University of Minnesota website gives a brief introduction into the therapeutic nature of acupressure massage, and also discusses when it might be used.

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Peaceful Statue of Buddha's Face
Acupressure Client with Neck Pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Acupressure is performed through clothing, so it is best to wear a layer of light clothing during treatment. Please avoid wearing denim jeans as it is difficult to work through this thick fabric and may effect the quality of treatment you receive.

Please try to eat a light meal about two hours prior to treatment, as it is best to avoid feeling too full or too hungry when on the couch. Please also avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol for at least two hours before your session, as these can interfere with your treatment. Finally, please avoid brushing your tongue, wearing strong perfume, and wear only minimal makeup, as this will allow for more accurate diagnosis.

Acupressure is a form of therapeutic bodywork, and as such not generally sought out solely for pleasure. Sessions involve a combination of strong and gentle techniques. Whenever strong pressure is required, I will always work with you to find the appropriate level. At no point will you be pressured to accept techniques you are not comfortable with.

With acute conditions, I would want to see improvement after 2 or 3 sessions, and for chronic problems I would want to see improvement after 5 or 6 sessions. I will review your treatment plan at each session, and discuss referral options if we are not seeing the changes we would like.

Some clients choose to attend clinic regularly for help with ongoing chronic problems as well as for help with the everyday stresses and strains of life.

Many people in Western countries expect to come for acupressure massage once a week, and this works well for the most part. There are, however, some cases where more frequent sessions may lead to better results and I will discuss this with you if I think it is the case. Generally, once an issue is under control, sessions can become more spaced out. I also recommend quarterly visits to ensure that you are staying well.

Most patients report feeling much more loose and energised after their sessions.

If you are receiving acupressure for the first time then you could feel a little light headed or tired directly after treatment. This is a normal reaction and is not something to be concerned about. It should pass quickly, and leave you to appreciate the otherwise positive benefits.

Acupressure can also cause the body to become a little dehydrated so it’s good idea to drink some water before and after your session.

Ask A Question

Need a little help?

The simplest way to get in touch is to call me on 07379 281275 or send a WhatsApp message. I am often in clinic, but please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can use the form below to request a call back at a time to suit you.