Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient form of Medicine that originated in China over 2000 years ago. Though ancient in its roots, TCM theory mirrors many aspects of conventional Medicine and addresses many of the same modern health issues of today from chronic back pain to labour induction to postoperative pain. TCM has a holistic approach to treatment that includes treating the mind and body as one. There are many modalities used in TCM.

During your initial visit, there will be a detailed intake that reviews your medical and health history, your main reason for coming in, and a series of questions that examine your body from head to toe, including your emotional well being.

A physical exam such as pulse and tongue diagnosis, range of motion tests, or muscle palpations may also be performed. Tongue diagnosis is done by visual inspecting the tongue and its various features. These are all done to gain a better understanding of your overall health and well-being in order to treat the root cause of your main complaint, rather than just the symptoms.

The intake process takes about 25-35 minutes during your initial visit. If there are any questions or exams you are uncomfortable with please let your practitioner know. They are more than happy to adjust to fit your comfort levels.

Your initial visit will be 65 minutes and includes the intake and a treatment. During this time I will create a unique treatment plan to fit your individual needs and address your main complaint.

Acupuncture can have immediate effects but most often requires multiple treatments to treat the underlying root cause of your symptoms.

On the day of your Treatment:

• Please eat a light meal before your treatment.

• Wear comfortable clothing.

• If you can, plan to take it easy for the rest of the day.

After your Treatment:

• Drink plenty of water.

• If possible, take it easy for the rest of the day.

• It is normal to feel either energized or tired after a treatment. Listen to what your body is telling you it needs.

• Get plenty of sleep.

• If you have any concerns please contact us at your convenience.

Yes! Nearly all plans cover acupuncture. All our practitioners are registered and you will receive an e-receipt that you can submit to your insurance.

Yes! Other tools and modalities may be used such as:

Gua Sha:

Gua Sha uses a flat smooth tool to gently scrape the tissues and muscles to break down Muscle adhesions and help with circulation of fresh blood into the area. It is not meant to be painful but rather like a massage. It helps reduce muscle pain and encourage lymphatic drainage. Having good lymphatic drainage can help improve your immune system, reduce anxiety and fatigue, and improve your complexion.

Tui Na:

Tui Na is a type of therapeutic massage using a combination of acupressure and muscle fascia manipulation. It is especially useful for people who are nervous about needles, but can also be used in combination with other modalities.

Electro-Acupuncture:

Electro-Acupuncture uses electrical impulses conducted through needles in order to create more stimulation on certain acupuncture points. It is especially useful for pain conditions. Electro-Acupuncture is safe and painless, and patients report slight muscle twitching or sensation of comfortable buzzing.

Lifestyle Therapy:

Lifestyle therapy includes recommendations on food, take home exercises, topical liniment recommendations, and much more. We understand that lifestyle changes can be very difficult and take time. We are so happy to work with people where they are at to find small changes that are both beneficial and manageable.