Acupuncture as Alternative Medicine
The meridian lines in your body are the main pathways through which energy from life’s vital force flows.
Your body is functionally dependent upon this vital force. This vital force is called “Chi”. The smooth flow of “Chi” enables body organs (and the mind) to operate rhythmically and harmoniously. Chinese medical philosophy considers “Chi” to be a nourishing vital force which plays a critical role in achieving and maintaining health and energy balance for both body and mind.
We provide professional, effective and gentle acupuncture, including the use of Chinese medical herbs.
What conditions can be treated using acupuncture?
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Acute and chronic pain management (especially migraine, neck, shoulder, lower back pain, sciatica nerve pain, knee, ankle pain, arthritis, and RA).
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Solutions to treat infertility, PMS, PCOS, IVF support, IUI support, miscarriage prevention, endometriosis, menopause (hot flashes), hormone imbalance, pelvic pain, vulva pain (vulvodynia), allergies control,digestive diseases (acid reflux, gastritis, IBS, constipation, diarrhea), anxiety and stress relief, autoimmune diseases,weight control, detoxification and more. However an initial consultation with the practitioner is advisable for the purpose of diagnosis and to establish a treatment plan, prior to booking a session.
What is a typical acupuncture visit like?
Initial consultation and treatment will enable the acupuncturist to assess the client’s general health. The acupuncturist may ask the client questions relating to the client’s current symptoms, past treatments, personal and family medical histories, diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional health. In addition, the acupuncturist will check body energy flows by taking the client’s pulse on both wrists. As part of the diagnosis, the acupuncturist will also assess the structure, color and coating of the client’s tongue, including the client’s emotions, voice and demeanour. This will further aid in the diagnosis and development of a treatment regimen that will assist in harmonizing the client’s overall energy.
Specific acupuncture points on the client’s body will be chosen before the practitioner begins treatment. The first session is usually longer than subsequent ones.
Initial Visit
Acupuncture
CAD $ 120 Initial Acupuncture
Subsequent visit
Acupuncture
CAD $ 100 for 60 Minutes
Subsequent visit
Cupping
Pressure Points Massage
CAD $ 50 for 30-45 Minutes
List of Acupuncture modalities and techniques
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Acupuncture: Acupuncture is the stimulation of the flow of Qi (pronounced “Chi”) throughout the body by inserting thin stainless steel needles into selected sites on the body. Only single use, disposable, sterile needles are used. Needles are disposed in a biohazard waste container for removal by a regulated biohazard waste service provider.
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Acupressure: The use of fingers or other device to apply pressure to stimulate acupuncture points.
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Cupping: Cups made of thick glass or plastic are placed over particular points on the body. A vacuum is created within the cup to lift the skin. This process opens up the skin’s pores, which helps to stimulate the flow of blood, balances and realigns the flow of Qi, breaks obstructions and creates a place for toxins in the body to be released. This has been found to be helpful in dealing with trigger points, contracted tissue and in some cases, edema.
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Electro Acupuncture: Needles are inserted at specific points along the body. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous and gentle electric impulses. Proven to assist the overall effect of acupuncture especially with pain and paralysis.
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Laser: Many acupuncturists use laser in preference to needles to stimulate energy flows.
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Moxibustion: Acupuncturists use moxa (made from the mugwort plant). Moxa is formed into a number of shapes; i.e. cone, stick, and loose wool. The moxa is ignited to warm body regions and acupuncture points, in order to stimulate circulation through the points and to induce a smoother flow of the body’s energies. Very helpful in chronic fatigue, weakness after long illness and fluid accumulation.
How many sessions do I need?
After an initial evaluation, a trial course of acupuncture is recommended. This usually consists of four to eight visits during a three to four week period. While individual cases vary, some improvement should be observed within this period. If satisfactory results are achieved, occasional follow-up visits may be required to maintain energy balance. Similar to other forms of treatment, certain clients may require an extensive and prolonged treatment plan in order to achieve the desired health benefits.
As a rule, the number of treatments needed will vary, depending on the client’s condition and constitution. Chronic problems generally require more treatment than acute ones. Some patients notice an immediate improvement, while others may not notice any effect until the seventh or eighth visit. A small number of patients may experience an initial worsening of symptoms before the client’s body energy flows return to normal. The client should not view such occurrences with undue anxiety, as significant improvement will quickly follows.
Are there any side effects and risks?
There are usually no side effects directly attributable to the treatment. As energy is redirected within the body, hormones and body chemistry are re-balanced and stimulated this, enabling healing to take place. Occasionally, the original symptoms may worsen for a few days. Other general changes in sleep, appetite, bowel, urination or emotional state may also be triggered. However, these symptoms are temporary and simply indicate that treatment is working.
Acupuncture is a very safe with minimal side effects when performed by a professionally trained and licensed acupuncturist,. Although possible, it is extremely rare for adverse outcomes to occur. Such outcomes could include puncturing of vital organs, fainting, infection and bruising. The client’s risk profile will be explained by the acupuncturist.
What should I do before, during and after treatment?
To achieve better, faster and efficient results it is recommended to:
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Complete a full course of treatment.
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Avoid brushing your teeth and tongue before treatment. Also, try not to consume beverages that may stain your tongue, such as coffee, gum and candies. A proper tongue diagnosis is very important as it may indicate possible energy imbalances.
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Remove all jewelry. This will help the acupuncture in administering treatment.
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Use the bathroom before beginning treatment as each treatment session usually lasts 20-30 minutes.
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Be honest with your acupuncturist when answering questions. All answers are confidential and aid in diagnosis and treatment.
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Abstain from alcoholic beverages before or after treatment
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Relax during your treatment. You will benefit most if you allow your mind and body to relax.
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Exercise caution when walking or driving after each treatment session, as you may experience slight dizziness.
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Rest and relax for the remainder of the day after treatment. Do not participate in vigorous exercise and avoid direct exposure to wind and cold.
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Be prepared to see some slight bruises after treatment