Acupuncture

Looking for an effective, natural approach to wellness and pain management?

Our registered acupuncturist is available at both clinic locations to help you with any health issues you might be facing. Acupuncture treatment is beneficial for a wide range of issues, and often treats the root cause of the problem, rather than focusing solely on current symptoms. You may be surprised to find out what acupuncture can do to improve your general health and wellness. 

Learn more about what acupuncture treatment can do for you.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a component of an ancient system of holistic medicine called Traditional Chinese Medicine. The treatment is performed by inserting single use pre-sterilized needles into specific points on the body for 20-45 minutes depending on the treatment.

Acupuncturists use very thin needles and generally treatments are not painful. In fact, many people find themselves very relaxed during treatment.

According to Acupuncture theory there is an energy that flows through the body called Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi has 2 forms: Yin and Yang. When Qi cannot flow freely, the Yin and Yang become imbalanced. The treatment works to bring balance back to the body, improving the flow of Qi and blood.

How does it work?

It is believed that the needles regulate the nervous system by releasing endorphins and neurotransmitters which have many different functions, including reducing the perception of pain and the effects of stress.

Acupuncture also works to release tight muscles and improve their function. It is a common and effective treatment for muscle pain, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and many other health conditions.

How can acupuncture support your well-being?

Our acupuncturists treat many health concerns. In addition to the previously mentioned conditions, acupuncture is also effective in treating:

  • Chronic pain
  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Women’s health including pre-natal health & PMS
  • Infertility
  • Weight loss
  • Constipation
  • Quitting smoking
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Gastrointestinal disorders
  • Respiratory problems including allergies and asthma
  • Migraines and headaches
  • Immune system support
  • Dizziness and vertigo
  • Anti ageing – cosmetic acupuncture
  • Sports injuries

In Alberta, many different types of treatments are available within our healthcare system. Acupuncture is beneficial as a complement to other treatment modalities you may be utilising, and is a great addition to your current health plan. Acupuncture can be combined with other treatments such as physiotherapy or massage to achieve excellent results. You may choose to work on the same issue with all of your therapists, or different issues with each to improve your overall quality of life. 

If you have any questions regarding how you could benefit from acupuncture treatment, please contact one of our clinics for referral to our in-house acupuncturist.

Who can benefit from Acupuncture?

Many people can benefit from the treatment. This includes most adults, pregnant women, and some children. The benefits of Acupuncture can be seen immediately but often takes at least three sessions and may require maintenance treatments, depending on the individual. Its effects are also cumulative. Your Acupuncturist can discuss your treatment program with you.

Other Related Techniques

Other modalities are often used in combination with acupuncture to improve the outcome of your treatment.

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is a popular technique used by Acupuncturists. Thick glass cups are suctioned to the body to move the local Qi and blood to relieve pain and congestion. Cups may be left in one position or moved across the skin.

Gua Sha

An effective component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gua Sha uses specialized scraping tools on the skin to improve the flow of blood and metabolic wastes, stimulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. It is commonly used to relieve painful and tight muscles, and for respiratory issues.

Plum Blossom Therapy

Plum blossom therapy is a technique used on the surface of the skin only. A plum blossom needle is a small hammer-like instrument with tiny needles embedded into it. The hammer is used to lightly tap the skin which stimulates the area being treated. It is often used for those who are afraid of needles, or for children.

Electro-Acupuncture

Electro-Acupuncture is the application of electrical currents to acupuncture needles to stimulate the affected areas. It is a useful treatment for ailments such as chronic pain and paralysis.

Dry Needling Vs. Acupuncture

Dry Needling and Acupuncture are two treatments that appear similar but are not. Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that uses needles all over the body simultaneously. It can treat many different disorders beyond musculoskeletal dysfunction. Dry Needling is a type of “western medicine” using needles to eliminate painful trigger points and is not based on the ancient principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Are there any side effects?

When you are trying acupuncture for the first time it is natural to feel a little nervous. Although acupuncture involves the use of needles, surprisingly there is little to no discomfort. Once the needles are in, the treatment is very relaxing. 

The most common side effect that people experience is occasional bruising.  This does not happen with every needle or even every treatment, but there is always the possibility that a bruise may occur. Other side effects such as light-headedness or mild dizziness are sometimes experienced. It is a good idea to have something to eat and drink before you come. 

It is also important to let your acupuncturist know if you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant.  Acupuncture is still very safe during this time but the acupuncturist should be made aware to ensure the proper treatment is given.  

Sterilised single-use needles  are used in all treatments, and are disposed after use, so there is no risk of infection.

If you have any concerns, please bring them up with our acupuncturist – they will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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