Common Conditions Acupuncture Can Help Support
Calm, Balance & Support for Your Journey
"People seek acupuncture for many reasons. Each story is unique, but the common thread is a wish for a natural, holistic approach that treats the root cause — not just the symptoms.” – Johnny Childs
A Holistic Approach to Common Concerns
In Western medicine, treatments often focus on reducing or controlling symptoms — whether through medication, talking therapies, or lifestyle changes. These approaches can be helpful, but they may not always resolve the deeper patterns that keep problems recurring.
Five-Element acupuncture works differently. Rooted in classical Chinese medicine, it sees every symptom as part of a wider picture — a sign of how the body, mind and spirit are coping with the pressures of life. By restoring balance, acupuncture can help to ease not only the main complaint but also improve overall wellbeing, resilience, and emotional clarity.
On this page, you’ll find some of the most common concerns that bring patients to my London acupuncture clinic. Each section explores the condition from both a Western perspective and through the Five-Element acupuncture lens, so you’ll gain a clear sense of how treatment can support your health and wellbeing — whether you’re seeking relief from specific symptoms or looking to feel more balanced in everyday life.
Maeva U
2025-11-28
I have seen Johnny for many years and he has helped me in ways I cannot describe. The care and attention in his practice is rare and I will be forever grateful. I have and would recommend him always
Angelique Smith
2025-11-27
I’ve been seeing Johnny Childs for nearly four years, and don’t intend to stop. He’s helped me throughout with my energy and stress levels, plus getting me in the optimum state so I could conceive my second child (despite being told it would be unlikely by mainstream medical folk). I can’t recommend him highly enough.
lars stephan
2025-11-02
Excellent, my energy level has been rebalanced to a level previously unknown to myself. Highly recommend this service for a betterment of general well being mentally and physically.
Julianne Miller
2025-11-02
A treatment with Johnny leaves me feeling grounded, hopeful and strong in myself. He’s a great listener and gives a spot-on treatment. That he’s gorgeous is icing on the cake. You’d be lucky to see him.
Thierry Franck
2025-11-02
It was a great experience! I warmly recommend!
Anxiety & Stress
Anxiety is one of the most common issues people seek acupuncture for in London. It doesn’t always look the same. For some, it’s an almost constant sense of worry, tension, or restlessness. For others, it can be sudden waves of panic that seem to come from nowhere. Physically, anxiety often shows up as a racing heart, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, digestive problems, headaches, and disturbed sleep.
Anxiety can have a profound effect on daily life. It can cloud decision-making, make it hard to concentrate, strain relationships, or reduce confidence at work. Stress and anxiety are also well-known to impact fertility, immunity, and long-term health. This is why many people look for natural ways to restore calm and resilience — not just to manage symptoms but to improve their overall quality of life.
From a Western medical perspective, anxiety is usually seen as a condition of the nervous system. Common treatments include:
• Medication such as SSRIs, SNRIs, or beta-blockers to manage symptoms.
• Talking therapies like CBT, counselling, or psychotherapy to change thought patterns.
• Lifestyle interventions including exercise, breathwork, yoga, and mindfulness.
These approaches can be extremely valuable, but not everyone responds fully to them, and many people wish to avoid the long-term reliance on medication. Increasingly, people are turning to acupuncture as a safe, effective, and natural complement to these approaches — one that works on both the mind and body simultaneously.
In Five-Element acupuncture, anxiety is not viewed simply as a disorder of the brain or nervous system but as a sign of imbalance across body, mind, and spirit. Each of the Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — has its own emotional qualities. Anxiety can arise when any of these elements is struggling:
• Fire imbalance may create over-excitement, restlessness, racing thoughts, or panic.
• Earth imbalance often leads to worry, overthinking, and a sense of feeling ungrounded.
• Water imbalance shows up as fear, insecurity, or lack of confidence.
• Metal imbalance can bring grief, emptiness, or a feeling of disconnection.
• Wood imbalance may cause frustration, irritability, and tension.
What makes Five-Element acupuncture unique is its focus on the Constitutional Factor (CF) — the one element at the root of a person’s system. By treating at this deeper level, acupuncture helps address the cause rather than just the surface symptoms.
For example, someone whose CF is Earth might experience anxiety through constant worry and digestive symptoms, whereas someone with a Fire imbalance might experience palpitations and panic. Both present as anxiety, but the root — and therefore the treatment — is different.
Five-Element acupuncture restores balance to the nervous system and supports emotional resilience by working at the root. Treatment involves the precise use of acupuncture points that help re-establish flow, calm the mind, and ground the body. Patients often notice:
• A calmer nervous system and fewer “fight-or-flight” responses.
• Reduced physical symptoms such as palpitations, tight chest, or stomach upset.
• More restful and consistent sleep.
• Greater clarity and ease in handling daily stressors.
• A deeper sense of connection to themselves and others.
Unlike medication, which often works by suppressing symptoms, acupuncture helps shift the underlying imbalance so that calm and stability can return naturally. Patients frequently describe not only feeling less anxious, but also experiencing more confidence, joy, and resilience in their everyday lives.
"Johnny and his careful and tailored acupuncture treatments have been nothing short of life saving for me providing healing and balance in multiple ways. Though I initially came to him 9 years ago to help my body repair from a loss of smell and taste (which started to shift and heal after a single session where multiple other forms of Western treatments had failed) I have continued to see him regularly ever since as the benefits in terms of my mental and physical health have been so huge and at such a systemic level I cannot imagine life without him and acupuncture now. I cannot recommend him highly enough." - Simon Lock
Migraines & Headaches
Migraines and headaches are among the most common neurological conditions, and they affect millions of people in the UK. For many, they are more than “just a headache” — they are debilitating episodes that can disrupt work, relationships, and the ability to live life fully. Migraines in particular are often accompanied by additional symptoms such as:
• Throbbing or pulsating head pain
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred vision or visual “auras”
• Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
Unlike occasional stress-related headaches, migraines can last hours or even days. Many sufferers live in fear of the next attack, which adds a significant emotional burden alongside the physical pain.
From a Western medical perspective, migraines and chronic headaches are typically managed with medication. These include over-the-counter painkillers (such as ibuprofen or paracetamol), prescription drugs like triptans, and in some cases, preventative medications such as beta-blockers, antidepressants, or anti-seizure drugs.
While these can provide short-term relief, many patients report:
• Limited effectiveness
• Side effects (digestive issues, fatigue, drowsiness)
• Reliance on frequent medication
• Headaches returning once drugs wear off
Lifestyle advice is also often given — including improving sleep hygiene, reducing caffeine, avoiding alcohol, managing stress, and identifying dietary triggers. These can be valuable steps, but for many people, migraines and chronic headaches persist despite these measures.
Five-Element acupuncture offers a different way of understanding migraines and headaches. Rather than viewing them as isolated neurological events, they are seen as signs of imbalance within the body’s energy system. Each of the Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — has qualities that, when out of balance, can contribute to headache or migraine patterns:
• Wood imbalance: Often linked with stress, frustration, or blocked energy, which can lead to tension headaches or migraines starting at the temples.
• Fire imbalance: Associated with insomnia, emotional intensity, or agitation, creating headaches linked to over-excitement or emotional burn-out.
• Earth imbalance: May cause dull, heavy headaches, often felt across the forehead, linked with digestive sluggishness, worry, or fatigue.
• Metal imbalance: Can manifest as sinus-related headaches or migraines triggered by unresolved grief or emotional contraction.
• Water imbalance: Connected with exhaustion, hormonal fluctuations, or deep depletion — often seen in cyclical migraines related to menstruation or stress on the kidneys and adrenals.
By diagnosing a patient’s Causative Factor (CF) — the element at the root of their health pattern — treatment can reach beyond symptom relief to rebalance the system at its source. This means not only fewer headaches, but also improvements in overall wellbeing, emotional balance, and resilience.
Research increasingly supports acupuncture as an effective approach for migraines and headaches. Studies have shown that acupuncture can:
• Reduce the frequency of migraine attacks
• Decrease the intensity and duration of pain
• Minimise reliance on medication
• Improve overall quality of life
In Five-Element acupuncture specifically, the aim is not just to silence the pain, but to restore harmony across body, mind, and spirit. Many of my patients report that alongside their headaches improving, they also notice:
• Calmer, more restorative sleep
• Stronger energy levels throughout the day
• Reduced stress reactivity
• A sense of clarity, lightness, and emotional balance
Because treatment is personalised to your unique elemental constitution, no two approaches are the same. For one patient, supporting the Liver (Wood) may be key; for another, rebalancing Water could be the missing piece. The result is long-term relief, rather than just a temporary pause in symptoms.
"I never wanted to go to acupuncture and then I was introduced to Johnny. He changed my life forever. Just a few treatments and my chronic migraines are a thing of the past. Highly recommend to everyone!" - Greg Meller
Hormonal Imbalances & PMS
Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of life, but for many people they can trigger challenging symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, fatigue, headaches, breast tenderness, anxiety, and irregular cycles. PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and other hormonal imbalances are some of the most common concerns patients bring to the clinic. Left untreated, these symptoms can interfere with daily life, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Understanding the root of these imbalances is the first step toward lasting relief.
In Western medicine, hormonal symptoms are often managed through approaches such as the contraceptive pill, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), painkillers, or antidepressants. While these options may provide temporary relief, they can sometimes carry side effects and don’t always address why the imbalance is occurring in the first place. Blood tests may measure hormone levels, but many patients still find themselves struggling with symptoms despite “normal” results, leaving them searching for a more holistic solution.
In Five-Element acupuncture, hormonal imbalances are not viewed in isolation but as part of a wider picture of imbalance across body, mind, and spirit. For example, the Liver Element is closely linked with the smooth flow of Qi and blood — when out of balance, it can manifest as irritability, breast tenderness, or menstrual cramps. The Earth Element governs digestion and nourishment; when weakened, it may lead to bloating, fatigue, or sugar cravings. By identifying which Element is most out of balance, treatment can be tailored to restore harmony, supporting not just reproductive health but also emotional resilience and vitality.
When hormones fall out of rhythm, it can affect everything — mood, energy, sleep, digestion, even the way you feel in your own skin. For many women, this shows up as PMS: tension, irritability, anxiety, low mood, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, or irregular cycles. These symptoms aren’t simply random; they’re the body’s way of showing that the delicate hormonal balance needs support.
Five Element acupuncture works by regulating the body’s internal communication systems — particularly the connection between the brain, nervous system, and endocrine glands. By stimulating precise acupuncture points, treatment helps the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (the body’s hormonal control centre) communicate more effectively. This natural regulation can ease PMS symptoms, support a more consistent cycle, and help stabilise mood and energy levels throughout the month.
Beyond the physical, acupuncture also addresses the emotional shifts that accompany hormonal imbalance. In Five Element theory, these changes are seen as signs of imbalance within the body’s elemental energies — for instance, frustration and irritability relate to the Wood element, while low mood or fatigue often link to Earth. By bringing these elements back into harmony, treatment helps you feel calmer, more grounded, and more like yourself again.
Each session is entirely individual. Sometimes the focus is on calming an overstimulated system; at other times it’s about gently boosting energy or easing stagnation. Over time, you’ll likely notice not just a reduction in symptoms, but a steadier emotional baseline — a sense of balance that carries through the entire month.
Acupuncture doesn’t just mask symptoms; it restores connection between your body and its natural rhythm. When that communication is re-established, the whole system can begin to move in sync again
I saw Johnny for several years to support with hormonal imbalance, and I can’t recommend him highly enough. He is incredibly professional, uplifting, and has a real gift for understanding how you’re feeling on both a physical and emotional level. I’ve always been terrified of needles, but Johnny was so considerate, he made adjustments wherever possible and always ensured I was comfortable.
During the time I was seeing him, I noticed a real boost in my energy and overall wellbeing, and I also fell pregnant twice during this period. I never once had concerns in his care, only trust and gratitude.
Thank you so much, for everything Johnny ! - Jessica H
Menopause & Perimenopause
The transition through perimenopause and menopause marks a natural, powerful shift in a woman’s life — but it can also bring unexpected physical and emotional changes. Fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels can lead to hot flushes, anxiety, poor sleep, low mood, brain fog, weight changes, and loss of libido. For many, it’s also a time when old patterns — physical and emotional — resurface, asking to be addressed in a new way.
Perimenopause can begin years before the final period, with subtle shifts in mood, cycle length, or energy levels. Menopause itself — defined as twelve months after your last period — is not an ending, but an invitation to move into a different rhythm. Supporting the body through this transition makes it far smoother, helping you feel balanced, clear, and confident in this next chapter.
Conventional treatment often focuses on replacing declining hormones through HRT (hormone replacement therapy), alongside medication for specific symptoms such as sleep aids or antidepressants. For some women, this approach can be transformative; for others, it can bring unwanted side effects or feel incomplete — addressing the symptoms but not the deeper sense of disconnection or depletion that can arise at this stage.
While medical support plays an important role, many women find they also need something that works with the body — helping it adapt naturally rather than overriding its processes. This is where acupuncture offers a complementary and holistic alternative.
In Five Element acupuncture, menopause is understood as a time of transformation — a recalibration of energy that affects every level of being. The hormonal shifts are seen as part of a wider energetic rebalancing, where the body is seeking a new state of harmony.
Each woman’s experience is unique. One may feel hot and restless (signs of excess Fire); another may feel tired, flat, or emotionally detached (signs of declining Water or Earth). By identifying which elements are out of balance, treatment is tailored precisely to your individual needs — addressing both the physical symptoms and the emotional or spiritual shifts that accompany them.
This approach doesn’t pathologise menopause; it honours it as a natural passage, guiding the body gently back into alignment so this stage feels empowering rather than depleting.
Acupuncture helps by calming the nervous system, regulating hormonal fluctuations, and improving circulation — all of which ease common menopausal symptoms. Treatments can reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flushes, improve sleep, lift mood, and stabilise energy levels.
But beyond symptom relief, acupuncture supports the deeper emotional landscape of this transition. It can ease anxiety, bring clarity, and restore a sense of groundedness and connection to the body. By balancing the autonomic nervous system and supporting adrenal function, acupuncture also helps the body adapt more smoothly to the reduced hormonal output from the ovaries.
Over time, many women notice a profound shift — not just fewer symptoms, but a renewed sense of strength, self-assurance, and calm. The aim is not simply to “get through” menopause, but to move through it feeling more whole, balanced, and aligned.
I saw Johnny for several years to support with hormonal imbalance, and I can’t recommend him highly enough. He is incredibly professional, uplifting, and has a real gift for understanding how you’re feeling on both a physical and emotional level. I’ve always been terrified of needles, but Johnny was so considerate, he made adjustments wherever possible and always ensured I was comfortable. During the time I was seeing him, I noticed a real boost in my energy and overall wellbeing,
Thank you so much, for everything Johnny ! - Jessica H
Digestive Issues (IBS, bloating, discomfort)
Digestive problems such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, and abdominal discomfort are among the most common reasons people seek help. These issues can affect daily life, leaving people feeling fatigued, uncomfortable, and anxious about food choices or social situations. Triggers can vary from diet and stress to hormonal changes or underlying imbalances, which is why a holistic approach is often needed.
In Western medicine, digestive issues are often managed through dietary adjustments, lifestyle advice, medications such as antispasmodics or laxatives, and sometimes psychological support like CBT for IBS. While these approaches can provide relief, many people find their symptoms return or fluctuate with stress, diet, or hormonal cycles. This can leave patients looking for a treatment that not only eases discomfort but also addresses the root cause.
In Five-Element acupuncture, digestive problems are seen as signs of imbalance in the body’s natural flow of energy, particularly in the Earth element (linked to the Stomach and Spleen). When this system is under strain, it may show up as bloating, irregular bowel movements, or difficulty digesting not only food, but life’s experiences. By restoring harmony across the elements, treatment works to strengthen resilience, improve digestion, and bring balance to body and mind.
Acupuncture can help relieve IBS symptoms, bloating, abdominal discomfort, sluggish digestion, and food-related anxiety by improving the smooth flow of energy and calming the nervous system. Many patients report better digestion, more regular bowel movements, reduced bloating, and greater comfort after a course of treatment. In addition to symptom relief, acupuncture can help reduce stress and promote a sense of balance, which often has a direct positive effect on the digestive system.
Johnny is the best! He is so knowledgeable and friendly. He’s very gentle and makes you feel comfortable. I was very scared to have acupuncture. Johnny made me feel at ease. I’m really loving the benefits and it’s part of my monthly wellness routine. Thank Johnny! - M L
Fatigue & Low Energy
Persistent fatigue is one of the most common symptoms I see in clinic — yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many people describe feeling constantly drained, foggy, or depleted, even after rest. For some, the fatigue is physical, for others it’s emotional — or both.
Modern life pushes the body’s resources hard: stress, disrupted sleep, irregular eating, and constant stimulation gradually deplete energy reserves. Over time, this leads to a sense of running on empty, where even simple tasks feel effortful. In Chinese medicine, this reflects a weakening of the body’s vital energy, or Qi, and a loss of harmony between the systems responsible for maintaining it.
In Western medicine, fatigue is often linked to factors such as anaemia, thyroid imbalance, post-viral recovery, or sleep disorders. Blood tests and scans may come back “normal,” yet the person still feels exhausted — physically and mentally.
When no clear cause is found, fatigue can be managed with lifestyle advice, supplements, or medication for associated symptoms such as low mood or poor sleep.
While these approaches can help, they rarely address why the body’s natural vitality has declined in the first place. Acupuncture offers a different route — one that rebuilds energy from within and restores the body’s ability to regulate itself.
In Five Element acupuncture, fatigue is viewed not simply as a lack of energy, but as a sign that the body’s natural balance has been disrupted. The question becomes why your energy is low — where the imbalance lies and what’s preventing proper replenishment.
Each type of fatigue tells its own story.
• A heavy, sluggish tiredness points to an imbalance in the Earth element, where digestion and nourishment are compromised.
• A wired but tired exhaustion reflects Fire or Water imbalance, often caused by stress, overwork, or long-term anxiety.
• Emotional fatigue may suggest a Metal imbalance, linked to grief, loss, or a lack of inspiration.
By identifying and treating the underlying elemental pattern, acupuncture helps restore the body’s rhythm and renews a sense of vitality.
Acupuncture works by supporting the body’s key regulatory systems — hormonal, nervous, and digestive — to restore natural energy production. Treatment improves circulation, oxygen delivery, and cellular metabolism, helping you feel more awake and grounded.
On a deeper level, acupuncture calms the nervous system, allowing the body to shift out of “fight or flight” mode and into repair and recovery. As the body relaxes, sleep quality improves, digestion becomes steadier, and energy levels begin to rebuild naturally.
Many patients describe feeling a subtle yet profound shift — a sense of “being reconnected” to themselves. Over a course of treatments, fatigue is replaced by clarity, steadiness, and a return of motivation and joy.
I can’t thank Johnny enough for the support and care I’ve received throughout my journey. The acupuncture has made such a significant difference in my life—I genuinely wouldn’t be where I am today without it. Each session leaves me feeling more resilient, energised, and deeply relaxed. It’s helped me reconnect with my body in the ways I’ve needed most at each stage, mentally, physically, emotionally, and energetically. I always feel held, seen, and supported in a grounded and intuitive way on top of a strong practice that keeps pulling me forward in my long Covid recovery. Highly recommend to anyone looking to restore balance and have a consistent effective treatment to help relieve and restore and find deeper connection within themselves. - Yolande Bramble-Carter
Emotional Wellbeing (overwhelm, low mood)
Modern life places extraordinary demands on our emotional systems. Between work, relationships, and constant stimulation, it’s easy to reach a point of depletion — feeling anxious, low, or simply overwhelmed.
Often, there’s no single cause. Emotional wellbeing can be influenced by hormonal shifts, stress, exhaustion, or the after-effects of difficult experiences. In Chinese medicine, emotions are not separate from the body — they’re part of the same energetic network. When balance is lost, we may feel it as anxiety, irritability, sadness, or a sense of disconnection from ourselves.
Acupuncture helps to calm and rebalance the system, creating space for emotional clarity, stability, and rest.
The conventional route for emotional difficulties often involves medication, talking therapy, or lifestyle adjustments such as exercise and mindfulness. These can be vital and effective — yet many people find that their emotional state still fluctuates, or that physical symptoms such as tension, fatigue, or poor sleep persist.
From a Western standpoint, mood changes are linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, as well as chronic stress that keeps the body in “fight or flight” mode. The result is a system that never fully relaxes or restores itself.
Acupuncture complements these approaches by working directly with the body’s physiology — not as a replacement, but as a means of reconnecting mind and body so healing feels more complete.
In Five Element acupuncture, emotions are understood as expressions of the body’s energy. Each emotion corresponds to one of the Five Elements — for example, worry relates to Earth, fear to Water, sadness to Metal, and frustration to Wood. When these elements fall out of balance, emotional harmony is lost.
Treatment focuses on identifying which elements are under strain and restoring the flow of energy through the system. This process not only lifts mood and reduces anxiety but also reawakens a sense of connection, confidence, and peace.
Rather than suppressing emotions, acupuncture helps you move through them — transforming overwhelm into stability, and stagnation into ease.
Acupuncture regulates the nervous system, helping to shift the body out of chronic stress and into a state of calm. It reduces cortisol, balances heart rate and breathing, and improves sleep — all of which directly affect emotional resilience.
By supporting the parasympathetic (“rest and restore”) response, acupuncture allows both body and mind to recover from strain. Patients often describe feeling lighter, clearer, and more centred — as if their system has finally exhaled.
This treatment doesn’t simply lift mood for a few days; it helps rebuild long-term equilibrium. Over time, you may notice that challenges feel more manageable, reactions more measured, and your sense of self more grounded and whole.
"Johnny and his careful and tailored acupuncture treatments have been nothing short of life saving for me providing healing and balance in multiple ways. Though I initially came to him 9 years ago to help my body repair from a loss of smell and taste (which started to shift and heal after a single session where multiple other forms of Western treatments had failed) I have continued to see him regularly ever since as the benefits in terms of my mental and physical health have been so huge and at such a systemic level I cannot imagine life without him and acupuncture now. I cannot recommend him highly enough." - Simon Lock
Fertility - Support for Natural Conception & IVF)
Fertility isn’t just about biology — it’s about balance. For many individuals and couples, the path to conception can feel like a journey through hope, uncertainty, and emotional intensity. Whether you’re trying naturally, preparing for IVF, or recovering from a previous cycle, acupuncture can play a powerful role in restoring balance — both physically and emotionally.
The reproductive system doesn’t operate in isolation; it’s part of a finely tuned network involving hormones, stress response, digestion, and sleep. When that system is under strain — from overwork, anxiety, or long-term hormonal disruption — fertility can be one of the first areas to feel the impact.
Acupuncture helps to regulate the body’s internal environment, supporting optimal hormonal function, improving uterine blood flow, and reducing the effects of stress. It’s an approach that looks at the whole person — not just the reproductive organs — because when the body feels safe, aligned, and calm, fertility naturally improves.
In Western medicine, fertility challenges are often diagnosed in terms of measurable parameters: ovulation quality, sperm count, endometrial thickness, AMH levels, or tubal patency. Treatment usually involves assisted reproductive techniques such as IUI, IVF, or ICSI.
While these are powerful tools, they can also be emotionally and physically demanding. The medical focus is often on procedure and outcome — what’s sometimes missing is space to support the person going through it.
This is where acupuncture can make a significant difference. It works alongside medical treatment, not instead of it, helping to regulate hormones (including FSH, LH, oestrogen, and progesterone), improve egg and sperm quality, stabilise mood, and prepare the uterine lining for implantation. It can also support recovery post-IVF or after pregnancy loss, gently guiding the body back to equilibrium.
Many of my patients are under the care of fertility specialists at The Evewell, and the collaboration between our approaches means treatment plans are aligned, comprehensive, and designed for the best possible outcomes.
In Five Element acupuncture, fertility is seen as an expression of vital harmony — a reflection of how well the body, mind, and spirit are communicating. The aim isn’t simply to achieve pregnancy, but to bring the system into balance so that conception and healthy gestation can occur naturally from that equilibrium.
Each person’s journey is unique. For some, fertility challenges stem from stress and overwork, which deplete the Kidney and Liver energy — key drivers of reproductive vitality. For others, it’s an imbalance in Earth and Fire elements, linked to digestion, nourishment, and emotional connection.
Treatment is tailored to the individual, addressing the physical, emotional, and energetic factors contributing to infertility. By treating the root causerather than just the symptoms, acupuncture helps create the internal conditions for conception — whether through natural means or assisted cycles.
Acupuncture enhances fertility through several key mechanisms, all supported by research and clinical evidence:
• Regulating the menstrual cycle – balancing hormones and improving ovulation patterns.
• Improving egg and sperm quality – by increasing blood flow to the ovaries and testes and reducing oxidative stress.
• Optimising uterine receptivity – enhancing endometrial thickness and vascularisation to support implantation.
• Reducing stress and anxiety – calming the nervous system and stabilising cortisol levels.
• Supporting IVF cycles – improving response to stimulation, egg quality, and implantation rates.
• Promoting recovery after miscarriage or failed cycles – restoring physical and emotional balance before the next step.
Treatment typically begins several months before an IVF cycle or conception attempt, but benefits can be seen at any stage. Each session becomes a space for restoration — a moment to breathe, recalibrate, and strengthen the connection between mind and body.
I had the privilege of receiving treatment from Johnny Childs for several years, and he truly is one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever encountered. His expert acupuncture care helped me navigate two challenging rounds of IVF and supported me through two successful frozen embryo transfers - I genuinely believe his treatment played a significant role in my success. Beyond his clinical expertise, Johnny is a calming force whose gentle presence and healing touch made each session a restorative experience for both body and spirit. - Casey Ojdana
Johnny is the most empathetic practitioner. He brings in all elements together to bring a sense of calm which is integral to healing. I first had my treatment with Johnny several years ago when I was trying to have a baby; I had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, spondylitis, endometriosis and adenomyosis. None of which turned out to be correct diagnosis. Johnny kept me grounded and thinking rationally which helped immensely to keep my anxiety in check and to keep going and get through all my medical appointments. I am in good health, also have a healthy baby boy and I cannot recommend Johnny enough - As Go
Johnny is the practitioner I have most recommended and now so many friends credit him with their health too. He has changed my life in many ways, first and foremost, assisting with boosting my fertility and being a part of the team that created my daughter! Continuing on to consistently helping me on many different aspects throughout the last 5+ years. An absolute go-to call for me, can't recommend the treatment enough and on top of that Johnny is brilliant to spend time with. - Laura Barstow
I first came to the Kite Clinic before I became pregnant with my first child and had a wonderful experience. When it came time for my second conception journey, I knew I wanted to return. This time I’ve been seeing Johnny. He is truly exceptional. He brings not only deep skill and knowledge but also an incredible intuition, almost a sixth sense, for what the body and mind need in each session. His treatments feel both powerful and deeply nurturing, and I always leave feeling calmer, lighter, and more hopeful. Over time, I’ve noticed lasting improvements in my physical wellbeing and mental balance. Johnny has been a real source of support on this journey, and I couldn’t recommend him more highly. - Maria
Johnny is such a great practitioner, who immediately makes you feel at ease, takes the time to understand how you are feeling in body, mind and spirit, and then tailors the treatment, talking you through what he is doing, and what it's working on. I always felt so calm going there, during IVF treatment, which was so challenging. The treatment was so powerful and timed for during the most crucial points of the treatment and then throughout the pregnancy itself, which presented other challenges. It really helped with morning sickness, and the ongoing anxiety of having gone through infertility. I'll forever be grateful to Johnny for his expertise in Five Elements in helping me become pregnant. - Clare Edmondson
I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Johnny. I was quite sceptical about having acupuncture but I was desperate to regulate my cycle. From the first appointment, I felt completely seen, supported, and his approach is both compassionate and incredibly knowledgeable. I know its not the same for everyone but I noticed a change instantly and am very happy to say its been extremely successful in regards to my fertility goals. It's such a joy going to each appointment and I couldn't recommend Johnny enough!! - Layla Bolton
...He has also been side by side with me on my fertility/pregnancy/starting a family journey and a great source of strength and support with tailored acupuncture to suit what I need each session. He is an attentive listener and adapts his treatments based on what he sees and hears in each session. His treatment is highly skilled and importantly holistic and I hope something that I am able to benefit from for many years to come. I can’t recommend him more highly. - lucy puddle
Johnny helped me throughout a very tricky IVf journey and I couldn’t recommend him more. He is attentive, calm and positive. His knowledge and understanding is exceptional and I would return to him whenever possible. - Laura Fulmine
met Johnny at a time when I’m was struggling to conceive. I was just starting my IVF journey and I was so nervous about what my body was going through and the ultimate outcome. From the start Johnny used a phrase with me - “cautiously optimistic”! He gave me strength at every treatment that I could do this! Not to mention the wonders his method of treatment did to my body and how I reacted to the treatment. I ended up conceiving on my first transfer itself and while I’m extremely conscious I was lucky, I believe that Johnny was the additional supplement that helped! My baby girl came out hale & hearty this Sunday and Johnny will always have my gratitude for this! - Aishwarya Ravi
I can’t recommend Johnny enough! From the very first session, 7 years ago, he has been a tremendous help in my journey through fertility struggles, pregnancy, and managing anxiety. His approach is so thoughtful and holistic, offering not just physical relief but emotional support through some of life’s toughest moments.
During my fertility treatments and pregnancy, Johnny was incredibly knowledgeable, guiding me with care and expertise. Most importantly, his calming presence and ability to work with my body and mind during moments of stress and anxiety has been truly healing.
If you’re looking for someone who not only has a deep understanding of acupuncture but also cares deeply about your well-being, this is the person to see. It’s a full mind-body experience that I am so grateful for and has truly changed my life and how I live it! - Gemma Tanna
I’ve been seeing Johnny for over two years, and he’s been incredible throughout my IVF journey. He’s highly skilled, punctual, and genuinely caring. His personalized approach has made a huge difference, and I always leave feeling supported and rejuvenated. I can’t recommend him enough—Johnny is simply the best! - Shpresa Gashi
Couldn't recommend Johnny enough! He has been treating me for a year and has massively helped with our fertility journey and general well being. - Anneliese Spiro
I highly recommend Johnny Childs. He helped prep my body during my fertility treatments and has helped me throughout my pregnancy so far. He is empathetic, knowledgeable and highly professional. He is excellent at what he does. I am so grateful to him. Lulu Al-Sabah
Pregnancy Nausea & Support
Morning sickness and pregnancy-related nausea are among the most common challenges of early pregnancy. While the term “morning sickness”suggests a brief episode, for many women it can last throughout the day — sometimes well beyond the first trimester.
Western medicine tends to approach this through hydration, dietary advice, vitamin supplementation, and, in more severe cases, anti-nausea medication. These can be helpful, but they don’t always address the underlying imbalance, nor the exhaustion, anxiety, or emotional strain that can accompany persistent nausea.
From a Five Element perspective, pregnancy is a time of profound transformation — physically, emotionally, and energetically. The body is constantly adapting, and when its balance is disrupted, symptoms such as nausea or fatigue can arise as signals that the system needs support.
Each treatment focuses on restoring the natural harmony between the Earth and Stomach energies, which are closely tied to nourishment, stability, and emotional calm. By balancing these elements, acupuncture helps the body find its natural rhythm again, allowing digestion, energy, and mood to settle.
Beyond physical relief, many patients describe their sessions as deeply grounding — a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with themselves and their growing baby.
Acupuncture can significantly ease nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, helping to stabilise digestion, reduce queasiness, and restore energy. Treatments are always tailored to each stage of pregnancy, and every point is chosen with care to ensure safety, comfort, and effectiveness.
Two points are particularly supportive in managing pregnancy nausea:
• Pericardium 6 (PC 6, Neiguan) — a point located on the inner wrist, well known for its ability to settle the stomach, calm nausea, and relax the mind. It works by harmonising the connection between the heart and stomach — soothing both the emotional and physical discomfort of nausea.
• Stomach 36 (ST 36, Zusanli) — a powerful strengthening point that helps rebuild energy, regulate digestion, and stabilise the system. It’s often used to help counter the depletion that can accompany ongoing nausea or reduced appetite.
Both points may also be supported with moxibustion, the gentle warming of acupuncture points using moxa, a refined mugwort leaf. The warmth penetrates deeply, relaxing the stomach area, boosting circulation, and gently reawakening the body’s digestive strength.
Moxa is especially valuable in pregnancy when warmth and nourishment are needed but stimulation must remain subtle. Patients often describe the sensation as “comforting from the inside out” — a calm, gentle heat that helps the body reset its balance.
Magician! Johnny has supported me throughout both my pregnancies, along with my health and wellness journey I couldn’t recommend him more. He is absolutely amazing at what he does and I definitely wouldn’t be as happy, strong or as relaxed if it wasn’t for him. He will change your life! - Xenia Badenoch
I highly recommend Johnny Childs. He helped prep my body during my fertility treatments and has helped me throughout my pregnancy so far. He is empathetic, knowledgeable and highly professional. He is excellent at what he does. I am so grateful to him. - Lulu Al-Sabah
Johnny is quite literally a wizard! I started visiting the practice suffering from anxiety during pregnancy. Not only did the treatment plan help manage these symptoms extremely well leaving me feeling lighter and more in control, Johnny also managed to turn my baby around from being breech to head down in a matter of minutes. I still continue to visit Johnny during the post natal period for further support and it’s become a necessary part of my recovery. Would recommend anyone looking for an alternative route to managing emotional or physical discomfort - everyone needs a Johnny in their life! - laura-leigh freedman
Back & Neck Pain
Tension and pain in the back, neck, and shoulders are some of the most common issues I see — often not from a single injury but from the steady accumulation of stress, emotion, and posture habits. Many of my patients describe their discomfort as a “tightness they can’t quite shake,” or a sense of holding everything together. In Five Element terms, this is the body’s way of expressing imbalance — where emotional strain, overwork, or exhaustion begin to anchor physically.
Conventional treatments for back and neck pain usually centre on muscular tension, inflammation, or mechanical restriction. Physiotherapy, massage, or medication may help manage symptoms, but they rarely address the deeper energetic or emotional factors that contribute to chronic tension. When these underlying imbalances remain unresolved, discomfort tends to return — often during times of stress or fatigue.
In Five Element Acupuncture, pain is seen not only as a physical blockage but also as an interruption in the natural flow of energy through the body. Back and neck tension often reflects the burden of responsibility, unexpressed frustration, or emotional fatigue. Treatment focuses on restoring movement, harmony, and strength — both physically and emotionally. The goal is not just to ease discomfort, but to help the body remember what balance feels like.
Acupuncture works to release muscular tension, improve circulation, and calm the nervous system. Many patients describe a feeling of “lightness” after treatment — as if the body has finally exhaled. Over time, regular acupuncture can retrain the body’s response to stress, reduce recurring tightness, and support better posture and energy flow. For those who carry their tension in the upper back and neck, it often becomes a space of renewal — not strain.
Acupuncture During Chemotherapy — Supporting Body and Mind
Going through chemotherapy can be one of the most physically and emotionally demanding experiences. While the treatment is essential in targeting cancer, the side effects often leave patients feeling depleted, anxious, and out of balance.
Chemotherapy can be one of the most physically and emotionally demanding experiences a person can face. While its purpose is to target and destroy cancer cells, it also places considerable strain on the body’s natural balance and vitality. Many people experience fatigue, nausea, digestive discomfort, sleep disturbances, and a deep sense of depletion — physically and emotionally.
For many, this period can feel like being disconnected from their own body — as though their natural rhythm has been disrupted by the medical process. Acupuncture offers a way to help restore that connection, gently re-establishing equilibrium and supporting the body’s innate capacity to heal.
In Five Element Acupuncture, the focus is never solely on symptoms, but on the person experiencing them. Treatment honours the full spectrum of what each patient is navigating — from the physical effects of chemotherapy to the emotional toll of uncertainty and fatigue.
By working with the body’s elemental energies — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — treatment helps bring the system back into alignment. This approach doesn’t fight against what’s happening; it supports the body to adapt and recover, helping patients feel grounded, resilient, and more at ease.
Acupuncture can be a deeply quiet and restorative experience — a moment of stillness in a process that often feels clinical and rushed. It reconnects patients with their sense of self, their breath, and their strength.
Acupuncture can ease many of the side effects associated with chemotherapy, including nausea, digestive upset, fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia. It works by calming the nervous system, supporting circulation, and rebalancing the flow of energy throughout the body.
Two acupuncture points are especially important in this context:
• Stomach 36 (ST 36, Zusanli) — known as “The Point of Longevity,” this point strengthens vitality, supports digestion, and replenishes energy depleted by treatment. It helps restore appetite, stabilise the system, and anchor the body’s strength when it feels most drained.
• Bladder 38 (BL 43, Gaohuangshu) — Known as “Rich for the Vitals,” this point nourishes deep reserves and replenishes the body’s essential energy. It’s used to help rebuild strength, immunity, and emotional stability through long or demanding treatment journeys.
Both points are often supported with moxibustion — a traditional therapy that involves the gentle warming of acupuncture points using moxa, a refined form of mugwort leaf. The warmth from moxa penetrates deeply into the body, enhancing circulation, stimulating the immune response, and strengthening vitality at a level that needles alone cannot reach.
For patients undergoing chemotherapy, this warming approach helps offset coldness, weakness, and depletion, encouraging the body to recover its inner fire — that spark of energy that fuels healing and resilience.
Many of my patients describe these sessions as a moment of calm and reconnection — a chance to rest, to breathe, and to feel supported rather than treated. Over a course of sessions, they often notice improved sleep, reduced nausea, steadier energy, and an increased sense of inner strength and emotional ease.
Acupuncture continues to be deeply supportive beyond the chemotherapy process itself. Post-treatment care focuses on rebuilding strength, stabilising mood, restoring sleep, and supporting the immune system as the body readjusts.
This phase of recovery is about nurturing energy rather than fighting fatigue — helping patients feel truly well again, not just “finished with treatment.”