Registered Acupuncture

What is Registered Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient medical model of Traditional Chinese Medicine that is based on the premise that the body is an interrelated system of energetic pathways. These pathways – sometimes called ‘meridians’ – flow throughout the entire body, all connected to each other.

These pathways create an energy flow, Qi (pronounced ‘chee’). Qi flows through the body, and is responsible for overall health. Disruptions, blockages, or an imbalance of energy along these channels can cause various health conditions, illnesses, or pain.

By applying very fine and sterile acupuncture needles to certain points within the pathway or the meridian, we are able to improve the flow of Qi, thereby improving Qi and overall health. Through a Western Medical perspective, acupuncture points are able to stimulate the central nervous system.

When we engage the nervous system with the insertion of these delicate needles, we may:

• Release endorphins
• Reduce inflammation
• Regulate various hormones
• Calm the central nervous system, muscles, spinal cord, and brain

These biochemical changes stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities, and help to promote physical and emotional well-being.

What can acupuncture help with?

You do not need a specific reason to receive care by a Registered Acupuncturist. Acupuncture is a wonderful choice to promote prevention and the maintenance of your overall health.

However, here are some specific examples of health conditions that a Registered Acupuncturist can help you with:

• Nausea
• Chronic or acute pain conditions
• Addiction
• Headaches
• Menstruation and women’s health
• Pre/post pregnancy health
• Digestion
• Tennis elbow
• Mental/emotional health, including anxiety
• Myofascial pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Lower back pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Asthma
• Stroke rehabilitation
• Sleep issues

Should I consider acupuncture along with other therapies?

Acupuncture is an effective treatment both alone AND in combination with other therapies such as Massage, Physiotherapy, Naturopathy, Chiropractic, and Western Medicine to help treat many conditions.

How many acupuncture appointments will I require?

All classic or traditional acupuncture treatments are highly individualized, and the number of treatments needed depends on the individual. A person with a chronic condition may need 1-2 treatments a week over several months. An acute condition normally improves after 8 to 12 sessions.

Your Registered Acupuncturist will work with you to determine the best treatment plan, including an extensive intake process with pulse and tongue diagnosis. Reassessments are done after each session to ensure what is working for your system, and adjustments are made to the treatment plan.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people feel little or no pain with the placement of acupuncture needles, though they may cause temporary soreness or ache. If you have any tattoos, you are more than prepared! Most clients report they feel energized or relaxed after the treatment.

What should I wear to my acupuncture treatments?

Please wear loose clothing or bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt for the appointment. Your acupuncturist will need access to your arms up to the elbows and your legs up to the knees.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

Make sure you have a small meal or snack before the treatment. Please do not have any alcohol or other intoxicants before the appointment.

What should I do after my acupuncture treatment?

Drink lots of water or herbal tea, and take it easy! Rest, have a nap, and try not to do anything too strenuous or physically demanding.

What will I feel after an acupuncture treatment?

You may feel sleepy or relaxed. This is due to the effect of the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) that acupuncture stimulates. If musculoskeletal issues are treated, it is normal to feel sore for 24-36 hours post-treatment.