Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy that has been used for thousands of years to support a variety of health issues. It is a form of complementary and alternative medicine that is widely used and accepted within western medicine. Its use has been well-researched and published in various medical journals. It involves inserting thin acupuncture needles into specific points on the skin. The acupuncture points selected by your practitioner work in unison to support your current symptoms or condition.

Acupuncture works to support a wide variety of health concerns and can be used safely alongside conventional treatments. Although many people are aware that acupuncture is used to relieve pain, here are other common reasons why people seek out acupuncture:

• Acute and Chronic pain relief (ex: neck pain, knee pain, muscle pain, arthritis)
• Headaches (ex: tension headaches, migraine headaches)
• Digestive concerns (ex: bloating, pain, irregular bowel movements)
• Menstrual cycle concerns (ex: menstrual cramps, irregular cycles)
• Fertility and pregnancy support
• Sleep concerns and fatigue

Each acupuncture treatment will be beneficial for your health concerns. The total amount of sessions will vary per patient, but multiple acupuncture treatments are often required. Consistency is also key and it may be recommended that you come in for weekly sessions.

Acupuncture uses very thin needles to penetrate the skin. Although acupuncture needles shouldn’t cause pain, some points can be a bit more sensitive with the initial insertion of a needle. The sensitivity should pass within a few seconds. All treatments use single use and sterile needles for patient safety.

Naturopathic doctors in British Columbia can become licensed to provide medical acupuncture treatments to patients.