Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Small needles are inserted into specific points along the muscles, nerves, tendons and/or fascia to correct the imbalances in the body’s qi – the energy that flows throughout the body via channels called meridians.

In China, acupuncture has been practiced since the Stone Age. However, it wasn’t until the second century B.C. that acupuncture was mentioned in the Huang Di Nei Jing (《黄帝内经》Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon) – the earliest and most important written work of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since then, theories on acupuncture have evolved and been modernized.

Flat-Head Needle Precision Acupuncture

Our Toronto acupuncture clinic is the first in Canada to offer the Flat-Head Needle Precision Acupuncture.

The flat-headed acupuncture needle technique can be more effective than a standard needle when used properly to address some common issues, specifically with the fascia system.

When a specially trained acupuncturist determines that excess tension or pressure in the fascia system is causing symptoms, like pain, anxiety, insomnia, etc. a flat-headed needle can effectively address the issue and relieve symptoms in one or two sessions.

How Acupuncture Works

Our Acupuncture Specialties in Toronto & Mississauga

Facial Care

Fertility

Insomnia

Anxiety

Pain Relief

Acupuncture helps the body to regain its natural healing ability and return to homeostasis. It can even promote circulation of blood and oxygen in order to stimulate the nerves and nervous system.

To rectify the imbalance in the body’s qi, the energy that flows throughout the body via channels known as meridians, acupuncture needles are inserted into particular points on the body. Stress, trauma, and even unhealthy lifestyle choices can obstruct the qi flow because the meridians serve as communication channels between the brain and the body’s different structures.

Acupuncture Benefits

Acupuncture promotes circulation of blood and oxygen in order to stimulate the nerves and nervous system.

Acupuncture can be used to alleviate pain and increase overall health:

Decreased inflammation and pain
Enhanced digestion
Reduced stress and improved mood
Increased circulation
Invigorated immunity
Balanced hormone regulation

Conditions Treated

There are numerous conditions that can be treated with acupuncture, including the following:

Respiratory system
Asthma, bronchitis, common cold, sinusitis, tonsillitis, smoking, etc.
Digestive system
Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, hyperacidity, indigestion, etc.
Gynecology
Infertility, menopause, premenstrual syndrome
Neurology
Headaches, migraines, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, Parkinson's disease, postoperative pain, stroke, etc.
Musculoskeletal system
Sciatica, arthritis, back pain, muscular cramping, neck pain, pain/weakness, etc.
Emotional disorder
Anxiety/depression, insomnia, neurosis, nervousness
Eye-nose-throat
Cataracts, poor vision, tinnitus, toothache
Miscellaneous
Addiction control, athletic performance, regulation of blood pressure, chronic fatigue, stress reduction

Acupuncture Treatment Procedure

The Process

A fine, sterile, disposable needle is inserted into specific points along a muscle, nerve, tendon and/or fascia to stimulate a physiological response that aids in our bodies’ natural recovery process.

Duration

The acupuncture needle remains inserted for 10-30 minutes to create the physiological change in the body. Each acupuncture session may last between 30 minutes to an hour.

Sensation

Acupuncture needles are associated with minimal discomfort and some people feel no pain at all. This is because acupuncture needles are thin, flexible and tapered at the tip, designed to slide smoothly into the skin.

Side Effects

With almost no significant side-effects, acupuncture has gained significant popularity in Western medicine for the treatment of many health-related issues. Overall, this approach is gentle, safe and highly effective. Single-use, disposable needles are now the practice standard, therefore the risk of infection is minimal.

Results

Since acupuncture is a process, certain indicators show that the treatment is successful.

Although everybody is different, some common indicators may include:

Improved sleep
Increased appetite and digestion
Healthy bowel movements
Balanced emotions and mood
Pain alleviation

You should start to see improvements in some areas after two or three sessions. You may start to feel improvements in your mental and physical health.

Acupuncture FAQ

Is acupuncture painful?

No. Acupuncture needles are tiny, metallic, and solid, as opposed to injection needles, which are bulkier and hollow (0.12-0.30 mm). Patients only experience a slight pricking pain, similar to a “mosquito bite,” and a tiny needling feeling as the needles are deftly inserted into specific points on their bodies. The majority of patients in our clinic consistently comment that it is much superior than their expectations.

Is acupuncture safe?

Definitively, if an accredited acupuncturist administers the treatment. It has the fewest side effects when compared to other conventional and alternative medical therapies. There are a very small number of accounts suggesting that acupuncture might cause side effects. It’s normal to have some swelling where the needle was inserted because there’s a chance the needle accidentally poked a tiny vein beneath the epidermis. Please let your acupuncturist know if you have a pacemaker, are expecting, or take blood-thinning medication. Female patients should let their doctor know if they are on their period.

How can I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

The best way to prepare is to eat a snack or a light meal before treatment so that your body has sufficient energy to work with. If possible it is best to wear loose clothing so that your arms and legs are accessible for treatment. After treatment we recommend you drink a glass of water to help stabilize your energy.

What should I expect during an acupuncture treatment?

You will be asked to relax for a short while while lying on a treatment table during an acupuncture session. Additionally, an acupuncturist will give you preparatory advice. Acupuncture needles will be gently inserted into specific points on your arms, legs, backs, abdomen, etc. You unwind peacefully on the table while soft music plays as the treatment is in progress.

How long does treatment take?

Generally, Chinese acupuncture treatment lasts 20 to 30 minutes. This can differ based on your specific needs.

Where are Best of Chinese Medicine Clinics?

Find us in one of our two convenient locations :

Book your Acupuncture appointment today.

We develop individual treatments to address each patient’s unique needs. We take the time to get to know you with a thorough consultation.

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