Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vancouver BC

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an ancient, holistic system of health and healing based on the notions of harmony, balance and prevention. Restoring balance and harmony between the natural opposing forces of Yin and Yang allows the Qi to move freely which, in turn, prevents disease. TCM incorporates Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, herbal and diet therapies and, most commonly, acupuncture, for treatments.

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is a system of healing that focuses on improving the overall well being of the patient. Health problems are treated by the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points. Originating in China, these points have been mapped out over five thousand years and have more recently been confirmed through electromagnetic research.

Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (energy) and Xue (blood),) through distinct pathways or meridians that cover the body. Acupuncture stimulates and enhances the free flow of Qi, therefore regulating the harmonious energetic balance of the body; thus, relieving pain and restoring health.

CONDITIONS TREATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE

The list of conditions commonly treated with acupuncture is extensive and includes:

ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENTS

The location of the points selected, the nature of the problem, the patient’s size and age and the acupuncturist’s style are all factors that will determine how deep the needles actually go. Acupuncture needles are usually inserted from 1/8 to 1 inch in depth. The patient may feel some heaviness, distention, tingling, or electric sensation either around the needle or travelling along the meridian, or energy pathway. However, the pain level is considered mild. During the treatment, the patient will need to uncover the area on which they will be worked and will usually lay on a massage table. The number of treatments required for healing varies depending on the duration, severity and nature of the complaint.

HERBS

Herbs are often prescribed in conjunction with acupuncture to continue to help balance the body internally. This will help the efficacy of the acupuncture treatment. Results are more lasting as the underlying cause is being treated. The herbs used are from the USA who guarantees the quality and efficacy of the herbs. They are used in tablet or powder form. This is the decocted pure form of the formula, no fillers are used, and more importantly, no preparation of raw herbs is necessary on the client’s part.

Please avoid caffeine and alcohol before your appointment and no alcohol should be consumed the evening after treatment.

Make sure you are well hydrated and have eaten beforehand. An empty stomach could result in fainting and/or nausea.

After treatment, you may feel relaxed and it may be hard to concentrate on certain tasks. On your first appointment please refrain from planning too much afterwards in order to understand the after-effects the treatment may have on you.