Ancient wisdom, gentle techniques and a collaborative approach to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
Acupuncture is part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine system based on the concept of ‘Qi’ (vital energy or life force) circulating along energetic pathways that run all over the body like rivers. Along these energetic rivers are hundreds of acupuncture points that we use to stimulate the flow of Qi and the organs’ systems using fine acupuncture needles, heat therapy, cupping, guasha, and massage.
The beauty of the Traditional Chinese Medicine model is that we look at disease and its symptoms as a message of imbalance – a disruption in the flow of Qi. Blockages or disruptions can be caused by a multitude of internal or external pathogens such as emotional stress, environmental toxins, poor diet, and lack of exercise. Every situation is completely unique which means that each person is treated according to their specific pattern and presenting symptoms.
Acupuncture, cupping and moxibustion can help treat a wide variety of acute & chronic conditions. In fact, back in 2017, the Acupuncture Evidence Project “found evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for 117 conditions, with stronger evidence for acupuncture’s effectiveness for some conditions than others. Acupuncture is considered safe in the hands of a well-trained practitioner and has been found to be cost-effective for some conditions.” – Acupuncture Evidence Project, p55
Here are some of the most common conditions that acupuncture can help with:
anxiety, stress, depression, addictions support
injury recovery, muscle tension
neck, shoulder & back pain
headaches, lack of concentration
digestive concerns (bloating, diarrhea, constipation, lack of appetite)
low energy, fatigue
insomnia & sleeping concerns
gynaecological concerns (PMS, cramping, fertility support, menopausal symptoms)
immunity and respiratory support for allergies & colds
Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific acupoints located along energetic pathways in the body using very fine, sterile acupuncture needles. Each acupuncture point combination is selected to address a person’s specific needs and symptoms.
Cupping therapy involves the application of glass or silicone cups to the skin to create a suction. Similar to a deep tissue massage, cupping can help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, and relaxation.
Reduce out of pocket expenses for your treatments through direct billing with the most common extended medical plans.
I have compiled a list of common questions I get asked about acupuncture, cupping and moxibustion. I will keep adding and modifying this page as I get more questions. Please don’t hesitate to check in regularly or to let me know here if you think others might benefit from your questions.
Thankfully, more and more extended health plans offer coverage for acupuncture treatments by a Registered Acupuncturist. Contact your insurance provider directly to learn more about your plan’s specific amounts and maximums. WorkSafe BC may also cover up to 8 acupuncture treatments if you sustained a workplace injury or were injured in a motor vehicle accident.
I offer direct billing for acupuncture in Victoria for the most common insurance providers through eClaims and Pacific Blue Cross.
According to a 2010 bulletin published by the WHO, acupuncture is considered inherently safe in the hands of well trained practitioners. In Canada, we have stringent health & safety protocols to ensure patients safety and to minimize the risk of adverse effects. On occasion, mild side effects may include light bruising and/or bleeding at the point of insertion and feelings of lightheadedness or nausea.
Most patients find the treatments very relaxing. I use Japanese-style, coated, ultra-fine needles to ensure the most comfortable experience possible.
Everyone’s experience is different, however most people barely feel the needles when they are inserted and, following this, is sometimes a mild zing, aching sensation, heaviness or warmth.
If you have any concerns, let me know and I promise to walk you through the whole process before we start our session and will be with you every step of the way.
In Canada, it is mandatory to use sterile disposable needles. We are also required to use stringent sanitation protocols in keeping with Health Canada standards.
This depends on what you are hoping to work on. Chronic issues tend to take longer to resolve, while a new injury may be resolved in a couple sessions. We will discuss a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and means during our first session.
I recommend eating a light meal an hour or two before your treatment to mitigate any risks of dizziness.
Afterwards, be kind to your body and drink plenty of water.
