ACUPUNCTURE
Daily stresses, poor diet, inconsistent exercise, trauma, accidents and age can weaken the immune system leaving you prone to aches and pains. Acupuncture improves circulation and removes blockages to the areas experiencing discomfort or insufficient functioning.
Very basically, acupuncture is a holistic medicine that considers the body imbalances that lead to dysfunction. We bring balance to the flow of circulation (consisting of energy, blood and body fluids).
Once balance is restored – healing can take place.
Approximately 2,000 different acupuncture points lie along the body’s meridians. Acupuncture stimulates these points with needles, pressure or micro-current (Needleless) to relieve the blockage in the flow of energy, enabling the body to heal.
In the Western view, acupuncture likely works by stimulating the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals called neurotransmitters and hormones.
These chemicals dull pain, boost the immune system and regulate various body functions.
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a natural and holistic medical system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, tuina, moxabustion, and dietary/lifestyle practices.
The ancient Chinese proposed that every living thing is sustained by a balance of two opposing forces of energy, called Yin and Yang. Together, they make up the life essence, or Qi - a type of energy that flows through the body via channels called meridians. When Yin and Yang are out of balance in the body, this causes a blockage of Qi and a subsequent illness.
The goal of TCM is to restore balance within your body to promote healing. TCM looks at the whole body not just the affected organ/tissues, and addresses patterns of imbalance. A TCM practitioner considers signs and symptoms from various perspectives and takes into account your unique pattern or patterns to determine an appropriate treatment plan for healing conditions and maintaining balance.
Chinese herbal medicine has a long history with clinical confirmed results to back it up. Studies have shown Chinese herbal medicines to be successful in treating a range of disorders including gynaecological problems, gastrointestinal disorders, autoimmune disorder, hormonal imbalance, cancer treatment side effects, allergies. TCM is also highly effective in treating psychological issues such as stress, insomnia, anxiety and depression, persistent fatigue and improving memory and focus.
TCM medicines are mainly plant based, composed of roots, bark, flowers, seeds, fruits, leaves, branches. Some preparations include minerals or animal products. Herbal medicines are generally gentler than drugs and there are fewer side effects. Herbs used in our clinic are extracted in granule form which allows taking herbs as simple as making a cup of tea. It is convenient and does not have a strong taste.
If you have extended medical coverage, you may be entitled to total or partial reimbursement for some treatments through your plan. (Please check with your employer/provider.)
We are a private pay clinic, but will attempt to direct bill for Pacific Blue Cross
and Providers included in Telus E-Health.
Please check with your employer for requirements and details.