Testimonials
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Patient testimonials are marked with a .
What we treat: Conditions A-Z
Acne
Addictions
Allergies
"I was diagnosed with multiple allergies over 30 years ago. Whilst I get by on an antihistamine a day at certain times of the year when certain allergens are unavoidable (pollens and mould spores in the air) I need more help. I go to see Brenda before symptoms become unbearable so that she can boot and strengthen my immune system which allows me to get through each day without feeling miserable due to sneezing, wheezing and itching."
Nicole Wilson, Warkworth
Anxiety
Arthritis
“I recently had a small stroke which affected the left hand side of my face, leaving me with rather a bad twitch around my left eye. I decided to have some acupuncture treatment with Brenda and after just one treatment it improved and after two treatments, it disappeared completely – much to my delight.
Brenda has also helped with the pain of osteoarthritis in my knees and right ankle – after only one treatment, I was able to get out of a chair without having to use my arms to heave myself up and out!! So I have no hesitation in recommending her services – it is drug free, which is a bonus.”
Barbara Williams, Orewa
Bell's palsy
“I recently had Bells Palsy which was accompanied with a searing intense pain in the head and neck.
I had never heard of Bells Palsy before and thought initially that it was a stroke. The left hand side of my face was distorted in that the bottom lid of my left eye dropped and I was unable to blink so I had to have the eye taped closed to prevent permanent eye damage. Additionally the left side of my mouth was crooked and my mouth would not close, so to drink I used a straw to drink out of the corner of it while standing over the sink in case the liquid dribbled out. I was able to get very little sleep due to the intense pain in the left hand side of my head and neck.
The doctor had prescribed steroids for two weeks. However at the end of the two weeks there was no improvement and I was told that there was little else that could be done and that it would be a matter of time.
After six weeks of having my eye taped closed, and in which painkillers had done nothing to alleviate the searingly intense pain in the head, one of the caregivers at Maygrove Retirement Village suggested that I try acupuncture.
I used the services of Brenda Burke of Turningpoint Therapies Limited to give me acupuncture. After the first session I had immediate relief from the pain in the head, and after the second session, the pain went away. I also think the acupuncture helped improve my recovery from the Bells Palsy.
I found Brenda to be very understanding and would have no hesitation in recommending her services to others.
Gwen McLennan, Algies Bay
Cancer care
Cardiovascular disorders
42 years ago I had a total colectomy resulting in an ileostomy and open heart surgery for pulmonary embolism. Since then I have consulted with many, many practitioners (without success) for:
Digestive problems – nausea, indigestion, malabsorption, diarrhoea.
Heart problems – palpitations, tachycardia, ectopic beats
Scar tissue formation, energy blockages, insomnia, flushing, debility, stress and shingles.
I consulted with Brenda 6 months ago. Brenda specifically tailored the treatments to increase energy and stamina and address specific symptoms. The results from these treatments are remarkable – all symptoms are diminishing.
These positive improvement result from Brenda’s outstanding knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine plus her total dedication and commitment to healing.
Pamela Bridge, Snells Beach
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Chronic pain
Circulatory Disorders
Cystitis
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Digestive disorders
- Bloating
- Crohn’s disease
- Colitis
-
Diarrhoea
42 years ago I had a total colectomy resulting in an ileostomy and open heart surgery for pulmonary embolism. Since then I have consulted with many, many practitioners (without success) for:
Digestive problems – nausea, indigestion, malabsorption, diarrhoea.
Heart problems – palpitations, tachycardia, ectopic beats
Scar tissue formation, energy blockages, insomnia, flushing, debility, stress and shingles.I consulted with Brenda 6 months ago. Brenda specifically tailored the treatments to increase energy and stamina and address specific symptoms. The results from these treatments are remarkable – all symptoms are diminishing.
These positive improvement result from Brenda’s outstanding knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine plus her total dedication and commitment to healing.
Pamela Bridge, Snells Beach - Heartburn
- Irritable bowel syndrome
-
Constipation
“For many years I have suffered from painful periods, mood swings and constipation. I saw gynaecological specialists about my painful periods and mood swings which were especially bad just before my period to be informed that it was due to my imagination. After three months of acupuncture treatment I no longer suffered from painful periods and my other complaints were more than 80% better. Brenda’s care, attention and tenacity did wonders as far as my health was concerned. She listens; she treats. Not only did I notice a huge difference after two treatments, but colleagues also made comments about the positive change in my nature. I learned; it was the only thing that worked for me.”
Claire Vinot, London - Nausea
Dizziness
Facial paralysis
Female Fertility
Frozen shoulder
Ganglion cyst
“I first developed a ganglion cyst on my right wrist when I was a child. The first was surgically removed when I was 7yrs old, the second when I was 14yrs old and the third when I was 21yrs old. Still it grew back. The 3rd and 4th ganglion cysts were in the fleshy pad at the base of the right thumb and where the size of a large marble. I decided that since surgical removal of 3 ganglions had had no success I would try acupuncture for the 4th. So a couple of years ago, two weeks after Brenda treated the ganglion it was gone; and it has never grown back."
Nicole Wilson, Warkworth
Gout
Hayfever
Headache
"For more than 50 years I have suffered from headaches and severe migraines. Numerous EEG’s, x-rays and scans (fortunately!) gave no answers to my problems and I just went on taking painkillers and getting “heavy” injections. With advancing years, came the usual arthrosis and arthritis issues and more… painkillers!
Now aged almost 68, whilst visiting my father and his wife in New Zealand, I met Brenda Burke, their acupuncturist and decided to have “a go”, just thinking “well after all, if it doesn’t work, it will not harm me either!”.
After just 4 treatments, the neck and shoulder pain/stiffness has gone, the pain in my wrists have all but disappeared (90% improvement) and it is just divine waking up without that nagging headache. I am so happy about Brenda’s treatments that I have telephoned my husband in Belgium to start looking for a qualified acupuncturist in my neighbourhood. I am only sorry I did not meet Brenda much, much earlier. I can only recommend her for her knowledge, expertise and true help and believe acupuncture should fall under health insurance worldwide.
Thank you ever so much Brenda! Best regards,"
Patricia Hoogens-Cromie
Health maintenance
"We take our cars to the mechanic regularly for an oil change so why not our bodies? For me I need help with digestive issues, allergies, headaches, tinnitus, sleeplessness and general aches and pains. As soon as I start to feel out of sorts I make an appointment to see Brenda to receive a system boost. Within 24 hours I am back to running on all cylinders again."
Nicole Wilson
Hypertension
Insomnia
“I am 78 years old and at the end of last year had a cast removed after slipping and breaking my leg... After each acupuncture treatment the improvement was immediate and on-going. This was a very encouraging method of treatment as I felt informed and relaxed at all times. It is a fascinating science. The needles cause no discomfort and the small degree of sensation is very tolerable – even pleasant I mostly found.
Each week Brenda adjusted her treatment as I improved, adding other little aspects to address issues such as cramp in my toes at night, sleep patterns, back ache and so on. All these problems disappeared as I achieved better walking ability, better posture, a renewed energy as well as many other improvements.
I simply cannot believe the difference Brenda has achieved in just a few weeks and would not hesitate to consult her again if other issues arose.”
Colleen Troup, Orewa
42 years ago I had a total colectomy resulting in an ileostomy and open heart surgery for pulmonary embolism. Since then I have consulted with many, many practitioners (without success) for:
Digestive problems – nausea, indigestion, malabsorption, diarrhoea.
Heart problems – palpitations, tachycardia, ectopic beats
Scar tissue formation, energy blockages, insomnia, flushing, debility, stress and shingles.
I consulted with Brenda 6 months ago. Brenda specifically tailored the treatments to increase energy and stamina and address specific symptoms. The results from these treatments are remarkable – all symptoms are diminishing.
These positive improvement result from Brenda’s outstanding knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine plus her total dedication and commitment to healing.
Pamela Bridge, Snells Beach
Irritability
“For many years I have suffered from painful periods, mood swings and constipation. I saw gynaecological specialists about my painful periods and mood swings which were especially bad just before my period to be informed that it was due to my imagination. After three months of acupuncture treatment I no longer suffered from painful periods and my other complaints were more than 80% better. Brenda’s care, attention and tenacity did wonders as far as my health was concerned. She listens; she treats. Not only did I notice a huge difference after two treatments, but colleagues also made comments about the positive change in my nature. I learned; it was the only thing that worked for me.”
Claire Vinot, London
Male infertility
Menstrual problems
Menopausal symptoms
Migraines
“I was suffering from weekly migraines. What I felt right from the start, was a feeling of complete relaxation – I was actually experiencing a migraine headache at the time of the first 2 treatments so I was in pretty distressed state to start with, however the pain quickly subsided to a tolerable level… over the weeks I realized that the recurrences of the headaches had diminished considerably. It has now been two years since my first acupuncture treatment and on the odd occasion I do experience a migraine headache, it’s 99% certain to be caused by low air pressure – verified by the barometer reading!”
Vivien Therkleson, Auckland City
"For more than 50 years I have suffered from headaches and severe migraines. Numerous EEG’s, x-rays and scans (fortunately!) gave no answers to my problems and I just went on taking painkillers and getting “heavy” injections. With advancing years, came the usual arthrosis and arthritis issues and more… painkillers!
Now aged almost 68, whilst visiting my father and his wife in New Zealand, I met Brenda Burke, their acupuncturist and decided to have “a go”, just thinking “well after all, if it doesn’t work, it will not harm me either!”.
After just 4 treatments, the neck and shoulder pain/stiffness has gone, the pain in my wrists have all but disappeared (90% improvement) and it is just divine waking up without that nagging headache. I am so happy about Brenda’s treatments that I have telephoned my husband in Belgium to start looking for a qualified acupuncturist in my neighbourhood. I am only sorry I did not meet Brenda much, much earlier. I can only recommend her for her knowledge, expertise and true help and believe acupuncture should fall under health insurance worldwide.
Thank you ever so much Brenda! Best regards,"
Patricia Hoogens-Cromie
Mobility issues
After unsuccessful treatment with prescribed medication for a pinched nerve affecting my back and left leg, I decided to try acupuncture… Initially there appeared to be little improvement but with perseverance and a few more treatments the results were hugely beneficial.
I am back to reasonable mobility, playing lawn bowls again and in much less discomfort. My grateful thanks to Brenda for her skilled care, patience and well informed treatment.
Ron Chapman, Whangaparaoa
Nausea and vomiting
Numbness
“I was interested to find out what acupuncture could do for me. My whole hand and wrist was very painful to use and was stiff and often felt numb and quite dead. It felt as if it was travelling up my arm affecting my elbow. I was sure I would have to live with the pain for the rest of my life (I am 95 years old).
Now that is all in the past. My middle three fingers are still a little stiff, but so much better. I am getting more use from my hand, my grip has improved and there is no pain.
I am amazed at what has been done and I would recommend acupuncture to anyone who is suffering from pain. Brenda has made a difference.”
Barbara Barclay, North Shore
Oedema/water retention
Pain
-
Arthritic pain
“I recently had a small stroke which affected the left hand side of my face, leaving me with rather a bad twitch around my left eye. I decided to have some acupuncture treatment with Brenda and after just one treatment it improved and after two treatments, it disappeared completely – much to my delight.
Brenda has also helped with the pain of osteoarthritis in my knees and right ankle – after only one treatment, I was able to get out of a chair without having to use my arms to heave myself up and out!! So I have no hesitation in recommending her services – it is drug free, which is a bonus.”
Barbara Williams, Orewa - Back pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Frozen Shoulder
-
Indeterminate pain
“I was interested to find out what acupuncture could do for me. My whole hand and wrist was very painful to use and was stiff and often felt numb and quite dead. It felt as if it was travelling up my arm affecting my elbow. I was sure I would have to live with the pain for the rest of my life (I am 95 years old).
Now that is all in the past. My middle three fingers are still a little stiff, but so much better. I am getting more use from my hand, my grip has improved and there is no pain.
I am amazed at what has been done and I would recommend acupuncture to anyone who is suffering from pain. Brenda has made a difference.”
Barbara Barclay, North Shore -
Joint pain
“From the very first acupuncture treatment with Brenda, I have relief from pain in my joints and I don’t feel so tired. I have a feeling of calm and I have a feeling of wellness, making stressful situations at work easier to deal with…”
Helen Baker, Gulf Harbour
“… Last year I injured my knee due to excessive training and it was swollen and very painful to move… Later that evening after my first acupuncture treatment I realised that my knee was not swollen any more and that I could walk without any pain. Now, 6 months later, I still do not have any problems with my knee… I can just say that I feel great and am amazed what acupuncture could achieve for me!
Janine David, Gym/Aerobics Instructor, Auckland City
“I recently had a small stroke which affected the left hand side of my face, leaving me with rather a bad twitch around my left eye. I decided to have some acupuncture treatment with Brenda and after just one treatment it improved and after two treatments, it disappeared completely – much to my delight.
Brenda has also helped with the pain of osteoarthritis in my knees and right ankle – after only one treatment, I was able to get out of a chair without having to use my arms to heave myself up and out!! So I have no hesitation in recommending her services – it is drug free, which is a bonus.”
Barbara Williams, Orewa -
Leg pain
"…Each week Brenda adjusted her treatment as I improved, adding other little aspects to address issues such as cramp in my toes at night, sleep patterns, back ache and so on. All these problems disappeared as I achieved better walking ability, better posture, a renewed energy as well as many other improvements.
I simply cannot believe the difference Brenda has achieved in just a few weeks and would not hesitate to consult her again if other issues arose.”
Colleen Troup, Orewa -
Neck pain
"For more than 50 years I have suffered from headaches and severe migraines. Numerous EEG’s, x-rays and scans (fortunately!) gave no answers to my problems and I just went on taking painkillers and getting “heavy” injections. With advancing years, came the usual arthrosis and arthritis issues and more… painkillers!
Now aged almost 68, whilst visiting my father and his wife in New Zealand, I met Brenda Burke, their acupuncturist and decided to have “a go”, just thinking “well after all, if it doesn’t work, it will not harm me either!”.
After just 4 treatments, the neck and shoulder pain/stiffness has gone, the pain in my wrists have all but disappeared (90% improvement) and it is just divine waking up without that nagging headache. I am so happy about Brenda’s treatments that I have telephoned my husband in Belgium to start looking for a qualified acupuncturist in my neighbourhood. I am only sorry I did not meet Brenda much, much earlier. I can only recommend her for her knowledge, expertise and true help and believe acupuncture should fall under health insurance worldwide.
Thank you ever so much Brenda! Best regards,"
Patricia Hoogens-Cromie - Neuropathic pain
- Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS)
-
Period pain
“For many years I have suffered from painful periods, mood swings and constipation. I saw gynaecological specialists about my painful periods and mood swings which were especially bad just before my period to be informed that it was due to my imagination. After three months of acupuncture treatment I no longer suffered from painful periods and my other complaints were more than 80% better. Brenda’s care, attention and tenacity did wonders as far as my health was concerned. She listens; she treats. Not only did I notice a huge difference after two treatments, but colleagues also made comments about the positive change in my nature. I learned; it was the only thing that worked for me.”
Claire Vinot, London -
Post-operative pain
“I am a 74 year old male and consulted Brenda after I had experienced some severe discomfort in my lower back following spine fusion surgery. I was unable to sit for periods longer than 30 minutes and driving was very uncomfortable. Relief was gained from sitting on a heated gel bag for some time but, of course, that was not always convenient.
After one acupuncture session I was able to sit for longer and driving was more tolerable. After the second session I was able to dispense with the gel bag and have continued to enjoy relief from the discomfort. Brenda is now treating my wife for a couple of long standing ailments and is making good progress with them.”
Ray Carran, Orewa -
Sciatica
After unsuccessful treatment with prescribed medication for a pinched nerve affecting my back and left leg, I decided to try acupuncture… Initially there appeared to be little improvement but with perseverance and a few more treatments the results were hugely beneficial.
I am back to reasonable mobility, playing lawn bowls again and in much less discomfort. My grateful thanks to Brenda for her skilled care, patience and well informed treatment.
Ron Chapman, Whangaparaoa -
Sports Injuries
“… Last year I injured my knee due to excessive training and it was swollen and very painful to move… Later that evening after my first acupuncture treatment I realised that my knee was not swollen anymore and that I could walk without any pain. Now, 6 months later, I still do not have any problems with my knee… I can just say that I feel great and am amazed what acupuncture could achieve for me!"
Janine David, Gym/Aerobics Instructor, Auckland City
Parkinson’s disease
Post-operative care
“I am a 74 year old male and consulted Brenda after I had experienced some severe discomfort in my lower back following spine fusion surgery. I was unable to sit for periods longer than 30 minutes and driving was very uncomfortable. Relief was gained from sitting on a heated gel bag for some time but, of course, that was not always convenient.
After one acupuncture session I was able to sit for longer and driving was more tolerable. After the second session I was able to dispense with the gel bag and have continued to enjoy relief from the discomfort. Brenda is now treating my wife for a couple of long standing ailments and is making good progress with them.”
Ray Carran, Orewa
42 years ago I had a total colectomy resulting in an ileostomy and open heart surgery for pulmonary embolism. Since then I have consulted with many, many practitioners (without success) for:
Digestive problems – nausea, indigestion, malabsorption, diarrhoea.
Heart problems – palpitations, tachycardia, ectopic beats
Scar tissue formation, energy blockages, insomnia, flushing, debility, stress and shingles.
I consulted with Brenda 6 months ago. Brenda specifically tailored the treatments to increase energy and stamina and address specific symptoms. The results from these treatments are remarkable – all symptoms are diminishing.
These positive improvement result from Brenda’s outstanding knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine plus her total dedication and commitment to healing.
Pamela Bridge, Snells Beach
Pre-menstrual syndrome
“For many years I have suffered from painful periods, mood swings and constipation. I saw gynaecological specialists about my painful periods and mood swings which were especially bad just before my period to be informed that it was due to my imagination. After three months of acupuncture treatment I no longer suffered from painful periods and my other complaints were more than 80% better. Brenda’s care, attention and tenacity did wonders as far as my health was concerned. She listens; she treats. Not only did I notice a huge difference after two treatments, but colleagues also made comments about the positive change in my nature. I learned; it was the only thing that worked for me.”
Claire Vinot, London
Sciatica
Sinusitis
Smoking addiction
“Due to poor health (mainly my ticker & asthma problems), I have tried a number of different ways, over several years to stop smoking. With Brenda’s help I am now free of smoking and since this program I have continued with the acupuncture sessions to help me resolve some of my other health issues.
Brenda is very dedicated towards achieving good outcomes for her clients. My circulation issues have greatly improved over only a few weekly sessions. Thank you.”
Roma Morris, North Shore
“As someone who has smoked most of my adult life (over 30 years), I have tried various quit methods – cold turkey, nicotine chewing gum, Nicobrevin etc, and am well aware of the withdrawal symptoms that take place… My first “anti-smoking” treatment by Brenda completely eliminated all physical withdrawal – I just did not feel like a cigarette, and by the next morning my mouth already had that “clean non-smoker taste”.
During the week, it seemed I had magically “forgotten” about cigarettes… I would highly recommend Brenda’s treatment for anyone desiring a painless beginning to becoming a non-smoker.
Pamela Dentice, Auckland City
“A programme that addresses your physical and psychological needs as you go through the quitting process. It’s relaxed and effective. It works.”
Holloway Eru
“Detailed and informative, not just addressing the chemical addiction, but tackling the real issues and preventing failure… Acupuncture made me feel relaxed and in control, which stopped me going into panic mode.”
Bev Drake
“Acupuncture completely took the craving away.”
Debbie Tischendorf
“I have never previously had acupuncture, but I found it amazing. A huge relief and help. Thank you for setting me free.”
Anonymous
“Very well worth the investment. This is an awesome programme… I feel great. Thank you so much, you have given me the freedom I so much wanted.
Helen Armstrong-Taylor
Sports injuries
“… Last year I injured my knee due to excessive training and it was swollen and very painful to move… Later that evening after my first acupuncture treatment I realised that my knee was not swollen any more and that I could walk without any pain. Now, 6 months later, I still do not have any problems with my knee… I can just say that I feel great and am amazed what acupuncture could achieve for me!
Janine David, Gym/Aerobics Instructor, Auckland City
Stroke
“I recently had a small stroke which affected the left hand side of my face, leaving me with rather a bad twitch around my left eye. I decided to have some acupuncture treatment with Brenda and after just one treatment it improved and after two treatments, it disappeared completely – much to my delight.
Brenda has also helped with the pain of osteoarthritis in my knees and right ankle – after only one treatment, I was able to get out of a chair without having to use my arms to heave myself up and out!! So I have no hesitation in recommending her services – it is drug free, which is a bonus.”
Barbara Williams, Orewa
Tinnitus
Vertigo
Weight Management