FAQ

What Can Acupuncture Treat?

 

• Headaches and Migraines

• Common Cold and Immunity disorders                        

• Neck and Back Pain

• Arthritis

• Asthma & Respiratory disorders

• Constipation, Diarrhea, IBS

• Menstrual & Menopausal Symptoms

• Insomnia

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists over 40 conditions in which acupuncture has shown to be an effective treatment. 

 

How Does Acupuncture Work?

 

Eastern perspective:

 

Acupuncture looks to restore the energetic balance of the body. By inserting fine needles into specific points along meridians or chaneels, the energy (Qi) via accessed to restore health.

 

Western perspective:

 

After an acupuncture treatment, physiological changes occur in the body. Western medicine has attempted to explain these benefits using the following theories:

 

1. Augmentation of Immunity theory – white blood cell counts, antibody and prostaglandin levels are increased.

 

2. Endorphin Theory – Acupuncture stimulates the secretions of endorphin in the body.

 

3. Neurotransmitter Theory – Levels of Seratonin and Noradrenaline are increased during acupuncture treatments.

 

4. Circulatory Theory – Acupuncture increases circulation through the release of vasodilators causing dilation of blood vessels.

 

5. Gate Control theory – The perception of pain is controlled by a part of the nervous system which regulates the impulse, called the “gate”. Acupuncture treatment closes this gate and reduces the perception of pain.

 

Is Acupuncture Safe?

 

Acupuncture is safe and effective when performed by a trained registered professional. Licensed practitioners use sterilized, disposable needles to prevent any risk of communicable diseases.

 

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

 

The micro thin needles are inserted quickly and without much sensation - sometimes a slight pin prick. The depth is often quite shallow. Once inserted, the acupuncturist will manipulate the needle in order to get the "arrival of Qi" - this can feel tingly, hot/cold, pulling sensation, numbing or zappy. No sharp pain should be experienced.

 

What Are Common Side Effects?

 

Treatment may cause temporary light headedness, drowsiness or slight bruising.

 

What To Expect On My First Visit?

 

The first visit to an acupuncturist usually begins with the practitioner taking a detailed history. Since traditional Chinese medicine takes a more holistic approach, you may be asked questions that appear unimportant (questions about your sleep habits, your ability to tolerate heat or cold etc.) but are actually vital to the type of care you will receive. After reviewing your history, the practitioner will begin diagnosing your ailment. Depending on your condition, you may be subjected to an examination of the tongue, as well as an examination of the pulse, a major diagnostic technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

 

Using all the information obtained during the history and diagnosis, the practitioner will then determine the cause of your symptoms. Depending on the condition, needles will be inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. Other modalities may be used to complement the treatment.

 

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

 

Everyone responds differently to Chinese Medicine. Most people see improvements after 6-8 sessions while, on occasion, dramatic improvements can be seen in just two or three sessions. 

 

In acute conditions, clients find the most benefit with 2 treatments/week for a couple of weeks.  

 

If the condition is chronic, the course of treatment will be longer, with treatments occuring once per week. The goal is to provide long lasting benefits. Once the condition begins to improve, the length of time in between sessions will be increased. 

 

Does OHIP/ Extended Health Insurance Cover Acupuncture?

 

OHIP unfortunately does not cover acupuncture; however most extended health insurance benefits do cover acupuncture treatments. Please contact your provider to obtain details on the extent and conditions of coverage.