Comprehensive Traditional Acupuncture Services
Stimulates specific points on the body to promote natural healing and improve bodily functions
Acupuncture is an ancient medicine that involves the insertion of small needles into designated spots on the body to promote wellness, alleviate pain and treat various mental, physical and emotional conditions.
Other associated modalities include cupping, guasha, tuina, moxibustion, acupressure, electroacupuncture and auricular acupuncture.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes over 100 conditions that acupuncture can be used to treat including the following:
- Pain (headache/migraines, TMJ, gout, colic, traumatic and post-op pain)
- Neurological (neuralgia, strokes, Bell’s palsy, insomnia)
- Respiratory (allergic rhinitis, tonsillitis, asthma)
- Digestive (epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, cholecystitis)
- Urogenital (urinary retention, prostatitis, UTIs, sexual disorders)
- Gynaecological and obstetric (dysmenorrhea, PMS, infertility)
- Cardiovascular (hypotension/hypertension, angina pectoris)
- Mental/emotional (depression, addiction, schizophrenia)
- Pediatric (diarrhea, convulsions, paroxysmal cough)
- Skin (herpes zoster, neurodermatitis, acne vulgaris)
It’s worth noting that while many people find benefits from acupuncture, individual results can vary, and it’s essential to seek treatment from a qualified practitioner. Unlike many drugs, acupuncture is non-toxic and has minimal adverse reactions.
Acupuncture Associated Modalities
Electro-Acupuncture
An electric current is used to further stimulate acupuncture points during treatments for Enhanced Pain Relief, Muscle Relaxation, Nerve Regeneration, Increased Blood Flow, Reduced Inflammation, Consistent Stimulation, Neurological Issues, Improved Digestion, and Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping involves placing cups (usually made of glass, bamboo, or silicone) on the skin to create suction. Treatments promote Increased Blood Circulation, Pain Relief, Deep Tissue Stimulation, Detoxification, Muscle Relaxation, Stress Reduction, Improved Energy Flow, Skin Health Improvement and Respiratory Relief. Visible circular marks or bruises, which are harmless and temporary, often result from the therapy.
Guasha Therapy
In gua sha, a smooth-edged instrument (traditionally made from jade, bone, or horn) is used to apply short or long strokes on the skin, typically in the area of pain or discomfort. This scraping produces light bruising or petechiae, which appears as red or purple spots. It promotes oxygenation of the surrounding tissues and breaks up stagnation.
Tuina Therapy
Tui na, which can be translated as “push-grasp,” is a form of traditional Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork. It’s used to treat a variety of conditions, especially musculoskeletal issues like back pain, sprains, and joint pain, but also some non-musculoskeletal problems such as headaches, digestive disorders, and sleep disturbances. Often implemented in conjuction with acupunture treatments.
Acupuncture F.A.Q.s
Does acupuncture hurt?
There are normal sensations that may occur upon insertion of a needle including tingling, numbness and heaviness. These sensations are referred to as “de qi”. Some points may cause some discomfort, others might not be felt at all, on insertion. However, acupuncture, generally, should not be painful and you should talk to your practitioner about any discomfort you may feel.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects include discomfort at the needling site, minor bruising and fatigue.
How long does acupuncture take to work?
Many patients will see some improvement after the first treatment. However, acupuncture works cumulatively and it will likely take numerous treatments to achieve your desired result. Your acupuncturist will propose an ideal treatment plan for you at your first visit and will discuss treatment expectations.
Can I receive acupuncture during pregnancy?
Yes, acupuncture is safe during pregnancy and can be used to treat conditions common in pregnancy, including nausea and vomiting. However, please let your acupuncturist know if you are pregnant, so that they can create a treatment plan that ensures the safety of you and your baby.
Do you re-use the needles?
No, the needles are single-use disposable medical instruments.
What can I expect during acupuncture treatment?
Your acupuncturist will listen to your concerns and take a comprehensive health history. They may ask to see your tongue or take your pulse as a diagnostic tool. Your acupuncturist will propose an individualized treatment plan for you. They will discuss what to expect during your treatment. If given your informed consent, they will proceed with your treatment which may include acupuncture and its associated modalities.