Acupuncture Treatment in Vancouver
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the key components to Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves the use of very fine needles placed at very specific points of your body. It is commonly used to treat various muscle related conditions as well as overall health and wellbeing. Common reasons for seeking acupuncture treatment in Vancouver are for low back pain, stress management, and fertility.
Our Vancouver acupuncturist specializes in the following:
Chronic Pain Management: Treating persistent pain conditions such as lower back pain, neck and shoulder discomfort, and joint pain.
Neurological and Nerve-Related Conditions: Addressing migraines, numbness, facial paralysis (e.g., Bell’s Palsy), limb weakness or imbalance, and providing post-stroke rehabilitation.
Dermatological and Allergic Conditions: Managing eczema, psoriasis, hives (urticaria), rhinitis, and promoting skin health through Facial Acupuncture.
Gynecology and Women’s Health: Comprehensive care for women’s wellness concerns: Menstrual cramps, menopause symptoms, fertility challenges
Are you ready to start your wellness journey with our Vancouver Acupuncturist?
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture’s effectiveness is a multifaceted phenomenon that has been observed for over 1000 years. In the traditional Chinese medicine lens, it is focused on balancing the body’s energy (Qi). The acupuncture needles are placed on specific acupuncture points to enhance or decrease the flow of Qi which restores the body’s natural and optimal balance.
In Western medicine, acupuncture focuses on the neurological and physiological effects. The acupuncture needles can stimulate the central nervous system, causing the release of endorphin and other chemicals that allow for healing. The fine needles can also be used to stimulate fascia (or connective tissue), which is important in conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and tightness.
Alternatives to Acupuncture: Effective, Needle-Free Therapies
While acupuncture is safe and effective, we understand some patients prefer to avoid needles. Fortunately, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers several powerful, needle-free therapies that promote the body's natural healing abilities. Consider these effective options:
Cupping: This therapy uses suction from glass or silicone cups to increase blood flow, release muscle tension, and clear stagnation. A common method, Fire Cupping, uses a flame to briefly create a vacuum inside a glass cup before placement. Cupping is excellent for treating pain, inflammation, and respiratory conditions.
Tui Na: A form of Chinese therapeutic massage, Tui Na (pronounced "twee-nah") uses various hand techniques along the body's meridians and at specific acupressure points. This dynamic massage addresses both musculoskeletal and internal issues by improving the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood.
Gua Sha: This technique involves gently scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate microcirculation and release unhealthy stagnation. Gua Sha (pronounced "gwah-shah") may leave temporary red marks on the skin, which is a normal healing response that fades quickly. It is highly effective for chronic pain, tension, and fever.