What does it treat?
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Acupuncture is a great adjunct to western medical treatments, as well as physiotherapy and other physical therapies without the worry of any adverse side effects.
Ideally, Acupuncture is used preventatively or once any minor symptoms show up as it is easier to treat imbalance in the body at this stage. |
How does it work?
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Acupuncture works by enhancing and amplifying the body’s own innate healing capabilities and bringing the body back to homeostasis and proper functioning.
It is an ancient practice with a strong basis in the eastern philosophy of Taosim. Its origins are in concepts that are often foreign to western minds, and it is composed of a completely different way of looking at the human body. The term ‘acupuncture’ refers both to the overall practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as well as the specific therapy of fine needle stimulation. TCM is a complementary medicine that combines modern medical knowledge with a 5000-year old holistic approach to medical diagnosis and treatment. Complementary medicine is a branch of modern medicine that provides therapies missing from standard medical practices, and it is a helpful addition to the care that your MD provides. |
Does it hurt?
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It might feel slightly uncomfortable for a fraction of a second, but most people report absolutely no pain. It is a very relaxing, minimally invasive form of medicine
I use the highest grade needles and expert techniques, making the actual needling aspect of your healing process nothing to worry about. If you are afraid of needles, I will help ease your fear. |
Will my insurance cover treatment costs?
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Most insurance companies cover acupuncture done by a Registered Acupuncturist, please check with your provider. If they don't, why not request that they do? A common problem with insurance providers for Ottawa employees is that they cover acupuncture, but only when performed by a Medical Doctor.
Until 2013, Acupuncture was not regulated in Ontario and although many wanted insurance coverage, insurance companies couldn't ensure people were seeing properly trained Acupuncturists. Most insurance providers have switched over to covering "Registered Acupuncturists" or "RAc" which is a strictly protected title that is regulated by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO). Some insurance companies have not yet made that switch. The more people that request Acupuncturists treatments be covered, the more likely insurance companies will listen. |
How many treatments will it take? |
This depends on what we are treating, how long you have been suffering, and how well your body responds to the Acupuncture.
As a general rule it takes about 5-10 treatments to see a big improvement. Each person is different - sometimes people come for one treatment and feel better - while others need ongoing care. Everyone could benefit from regular Acupuncture treatments whether they are dealing with a particular symptom or not. |
What happens during a treatment?
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During the initial visit you and I complete a very detailed intake and then proceed with the acupuncture treatment.
In addition to the insertion of extremely thin, painless, needles - a treatment with me may include a tongue & pulse diagnosis, acupressure, fire cupping, slide cupping, electro-acupuncture, infrared heat therapy, therapeutic movement techniques, posture & therapeutic yoga poses, recommendations for healing, topical application of balm, ointments, gels, or essential oils, jade massage, gua sha, tuina, ear seeds, moxabustion, holistic nutritional therapy/using food as medicine, meditation, breath work, lifestyle counseling and a variety of other modalities to help you heal. Once you are finished your first acupuncture session we will go over things you can do at home to amplify the healing effects of the treatment and discuss how to proceed. |
Where can I read more?
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www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-what-you-need-to-knowwww.journal-jams.org/main.htmlwww.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-what-you-need-to-knowPubmed has over 24, 000 peer-reviewed trials for your perusal.
Other resources include: Acupuncture Today Journal of Acupuncture & Meridian Studies National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH) World Health Organization (WHO) |