Acupuncturist pins down practice in Polokwane

POLOKWANE – When you hear the word acupuncture, the image of needles immediately comes to mind.
Part of an acupuncturist’s job is assuring clients that “it doesn’t hurt”.
Richard Pretorius is a specialised acupuncturist, detoxification specialist and complimentary or allies medicine practitioner in the city and Review had the opportunity to talk to him and find out more about his exciting work.
“I grew up in Polokwane and attended Noorderland High School. I studied at Unisa’s Healing Hands Institute and National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine done by placing needles in specific areas on the body and commonly used for pain relief, though it is also used for a wide range of other conditions. The needles are very thin and when they are inserted, cause a tickling sensation that will relax you,” explains Pretorius.
He says after he completed his practicals in Alldays, he opened a practice in Louis Trichardt and recently one in Polokwane.
In his free time, he studies anatomy, physiology and iridology.
“Iridology is an alternative medicine technique where you can look in the eye of a patient and see what problems the patient may have,” he explains.According to Pretorius, it is an old orthodox western form of medicine. He says the patient will come in and explain his problem where he will then feel the client’s meridian or organs. By doing this, he can determine whether the client needs to see a doctor or if he can help them.
“I do not put needles in a patient’s body, I put them in the ears. There are 200 points where the pain could be located. I can also treat the effects of chemotherapy and radiation.”
He gives herbal medication under supervision. “Each person’s situation is different and each person’s circumstances differ,” he explains.
A first consultation lasts about an hour as he has to get the client’s history and make a diagnosis. The follow-up sessions don’t last as long. A client usually needs between three and seven consultations, unfortunately medical aids do not pay for the procedures yet.
“I do not have patients, I have clients. I can help a client who lost their sight or hearing. If I can’t help a client, I refer them to a medical practitioner,” says Pretorius.
He says the best part about his work is to be able to help people who have been struggling with problems for years. He consults on nutrition as well as sport nutrition issues.
“I offer the last resort for people who feel they have tried everything,” he concludes.

You can contact him at 079 203 6229.
maretha@nmgroup.co.za