ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is an integral component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). After an intake and TCM differential diagnosis, a treatment plan is presented to the patient to address a particular health condition (typically 6-10 visits). Acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body using sterile, single-use filiform needles. Gentle needle stimulation improves circulation of energy (qi) and blood flow in the body. The results are pain relief, stress reduction and correction of imbalanced organ function.

The World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health have recognized the effects of acupuncture on various health conditions. Numerous benefits of acupuncture on neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, sensory, reproductive and emotional systems have been reported

Reference: McDonald J, Janz S. The Acupuncture Evidence Project: A Comparative Literature Review. AACMA, 2017: http://www.acupuncture.org.au

ADJUNCT THERAPIES

Additional Chinese medicine-based modalities may be combined with acupuncture/bodywork for certain indicated conditions. The use of these techniques requires patient informed consent prior to application.

MOXIBUSTION

Moxibustion involves the burning of the Chinese Mugwort plant (Folium Artemesiae Vulgaris) over a single acupuncture point or treatment area to introduce warmth and energy to the body. Traditionally, the application may be direct (using small cones or threads) or indirect (on top of needles or sticks held a distance from the body). In our clinic, we will use smokeless moxa on top of needless to accommodate allergy-sensitive patients and a shared office environment.

The area treated with moxibustion may remain red and feel warm for several hours after treatment. In rare instances, a minor burn or scarring may occur at the site.

ELECTROSTIMULATION**

Electrical stimulation (e-stim) involves the application of a light, alternating electrical current conducted through the end of acupuncture needles, most often used in cases of pain management. This modality is indicated to help remove blockages in qi and blood flow and constriction in the skeletal muscles by gently resetting electrical firing mechanisms.

** It is important to notify the practitioner of any implanted pacemaker or electrical device, as they could interact with E-stim devices.

CUPPING

Cupping involves the application of clean glass or sanitized plastic vacuum cups over large muscular areas of the body to improve local qi and blood circulation. A vacuum is created using manual suction or flame (fire cupping) and the cups are left in place for several minutes or gently moved around the area of treatment. This modality may be indicated in cases of localized pain or at the early onset of a cold.

Skin discoloration (redness or bruising) may result from this therapy that usually resolves within a week.

GUASHA

Guasha involves the use of a clean tool (porcelain spoon, stone, bone, etc) to scrape the superficial skin to bring up stagnant heat and congestion in the tissues. It may be indicated in cases of localized pain where qi and blood have stagnated. It may also be used in cases of an early common cold or flu that presents with trapped heat and upper back or neck ache.

Minor skin discoloration or bruising may occur at the treatment site that resolves in several days