Eleanor Dearden trained with the College of Chinese Medicine in Edinburgh, gaining a degree-level diploma in acupuncture (MAcS TCM), and is an accredited member of The Acupuncture Society. With a lifelong interest in holistic approaches to health and wellbeing, she has worked across a range of healthcare settings, including the NHS, mental health services, and complementary therapies.
Eleanor practises acupuncture in Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders, supporting clients with a wide range of health concerns. Joining Napiers represents a full circle for Eleanor, who began her career here more than 25 years ago—first helping to manage the clinic and later working as a professionally trained Shiatsu therapist. Based on principles similar to acupuncture, Shiatsu laid the foundation for her understanding of this system of healthcare and led her naturally to pursue a professional qualification in acupuncture.
Approach
Eleanor practises Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Orthopaedic Acupuncture, tailoring treatment to each individual. She also incorporates acupuncture microsystems, such as ear and hand acupuncture, and offers Therapeutic Cupping, Electro-Acupuncture, and Cosmetic Acupuncture.
Her experience includes supporting people with:
- Sciatica, back, and neck pain
- Sports injuries and joint problems
- Stress and anxiety
- Chronic fatigue
- Headaches and migraines
- Digestive problems
- Menstrual and menopausal concerns
- Fertility, natural conception, and IVF
- Pregnancy and postnatal recovery
Eleanor’s approach is also informed by more than 25 years of experience in Heartfulness meditation, a practice centred on developing inner awareness and potential.
Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture uses very fine, sterile needles at carefully selected points on the body, with treatment tailored to the individual. Rather than focusing solely on individual symptoms, TCM acupuncture considers patterns across the whole person, with the aim of supporting the body’s natural balance and overall wellbeing.
Orthopaedic Acupuncture focuses particularly on musculoskeletal pain, injuries, and physical function. It may be used for concerns such as sciatica, back and neck pain, sports injuries, and joint problems, with treatment aimed at relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and supporting recovery.
Having worked at the renowned Albany Street clinic in Edinburgh, Eleanor also has particular experience in supporting hormone-related concerns. She has worked with women and men through fertility challenges, natural conception, and IVF, as well as supporting clients through pregnancy, postnatal recovery, menstrual concerns, and menopause.
Additional Treatments
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Cosmetic Acupuncture offers a natural approach to supporting healthy-looking skin and enhancing its appearance. Combined with Gua Sha and Facial Cupping, this soothing facial treatment aims to promote circulation and collagen production, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
TCM acupuncture points may also be incorporated into the treatment, allowing Eleanor to take a whole-person approach alongside the facial treatment. Clients may choose Cosmetic Acupuncture to support complexion, skin texture, and overall radiance. A course of treatments is generally recommended, although results and the number of sessions required vary between individuals.
Therapeutic Cupping
Therapeutic Cupping is particularly suited to easing muscular aches, tension, and discomfort, and is often combined with Orthopaedic Acupuncture. Suction gently lifts the skin and underlying tissues, encouraging circulation to the area and helping to release muscular tension and promote relaxation.
Dry cupping commonly leaves temporary circular marks where the cups have been placed. These are an expected effect of treatment and typically fade within several days.
Electro-Acupuncture
Electro-Acupuncture can be incorporated into a regular acupuncture treatment and is particularly used for pain and musculoskeletal concerns. A mild electrical current is passed between selected acupuncture needles, creating a gentle tingling or pulsing sensation. This technique may be used to enhance the effects of acupuncture, support relaxation, and help reduce pain and inflammation.
Treatment Plans
The frequency and number of treatments will depend on the individual and their reason for seeking acupuncture. A course of four to six treatments may be recommended to maximise the benefits, although some people require only one or two sessions.
For longer-term concerns, occasional maintenance treatments may be beneficial. Depending on the condition, initial appointments may be most effective when spaced one to two weeks apart. Treatment plans are always tailored to the individual and can be discussed with Eleanor during your appointment.
