FAQ

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese form of healing that has been used for 3,000 years. The main concept is energy life force qi (chi) which circulates throughout the body using pathways called meridians. Unbalances are created in life, from external or internal influences, which affects these meridians. By inserting thin needles in specific acupuncture points, known as gateways to the emotions and organs of the body, we achieve balance to the mind, body and spirit. This helps the qi to flow smoothly facilitating the bodies natural healing processes.

How many treatments will I need?

Each person is unique with an “individualized treatment plan.” No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. The amount of each treatment depends on the severity, and the patients’ physical state at the time of treatment. If you have a chronic ailment that has lasted years, treatment generally is once or twice a week for a few months. The goal is to lessen the frequency of treatments until you only need to come as needed. After the first few treatments we will be able to evaluate how your body responds to acupuncture. It is vital to complete the course of a treatment to receive the full benefits of Acupuncture.

What is the difference between Japanese style acupuncture and Chinese style acupuncture?

Japanese style Acupuncture is a refined style of meridian therapy that uses thinner needles and have a shallow insertion that is gentler and subtler. Often you will not be aware that they have been inserted. The meridian therapy intends to treat the patients initial imbalance to help the body heal on it’s own as well as symptom of complaint. The diagnosis is made by using the pulse and palpation of the abdomen.

What to expect during your first treatment

Your first treatment is the beginning of being proactive about your health. I want to make this experience as a part of your journey to understanding more about yourself. The duration of time is 60 minutes and consists of a full evaluation of signs and symptoms of your overall health and habits. This evaluation is to make a Chinese medical diagnosis, using pulse taking of both wrists, an observation of your tongue coat and colour, skin texture and body posture. After we talk about our approach to helping you and a treatment plan, we begin with your first treatment with acupuncture.

How to prepare for your first treatment:

  • Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your first appointment and have the patient forms filled out prior to your appointment to save time.
  • Wear loose clothing for comfort and easy accessibility to find point locations
  • Refrain from consuming alcohol and caffeine the day of treatment
  • Do not arrive full from a big meal, or hungry
  • Plan an hour after your treatment to relax and enjoy the benefits
  • Please call the office at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled treatment if you need to re-book or cancel

What are the costs of treatments/ does my insurance plan cover them?

The cost of the first treatment is $130 for 75minutes, which includes the full confidential history intake and treatment. Subsequent treatments are $110 for 60 minutes. If you or your partner has extended medical coverage there is usually an amount or a number of treatments that are fully or partially covered. It is up to you to contact your personal extended medical plan to find more out this information.

Since April of 2008, acupuncture will be covered under BC Medical for premium assistance clients. They will receive $23.00 for 10 visits a year.

How does Acupuncture feel?

I begin the first session by explaining the common feelings that you may experience. Acupuncture is a unique feeling that is different to each person. Sterile needles are placed into their point locations, there are a variety of sensations a person may feel. A dull or energizing feeling at the local site of the needle, radiation through the channels or other parts of the body are typical of a session. You may not feel anything at all for the first few treatments; this does not mean that it is not working, it may be that you aren’t use to this feeling in your body and in the course of the sessions the feeling will become more recognizable. The essence that we want to achieve is qi or life force movement. I also encourage body mind awareness to benefit your overall long term health.

Conditions that are treated with Acupuncture:

Physical Conditions:

  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Arthritis
  • Back pain
  • Headaches
  • Addictions
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Asthma
  • High blood pressure
  • PMS and menstrual problems
  • Fertility issues
  • Seasonal allergies
  • Chronic illnesses
  • Digestive issues
  • Dizziness and Vertigo
  • Urinary Tract Infections
  • Addictions
  • Skin disorders

Emotional Conditions:

  • Anxiety and stress
  • Depression
  • Phobias
  • Irrational and Obsessive behaviours
  • Eating disorders
  • Traumas

“Healing is a continual journey.”