Acupuncture

Acupuncture is similar to Shiatsu, in that it’s based on the Flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) Qi maintains the balance of ying and yang.  Too much/too little or blocked flow causes disease.  The acupuncture needles are inserted at places when the energy pathway travels close to the skin. Practice of acupuncture dates to 3000 B.C., (using Bamboo cane) became formally recognized in the United States in 1997.  

Certified Acupuncture Clinic

The certified acupuncturists at our clinic are registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

The effects of acupuncture are complex. How it works is not entirely clear. Research suggests that the needling process, and other techniques used in acupuncture, may produce a variety of effects in the body and the brain. One theory is that stimulated nerve fibers transmit signals to the spinal cord and brain, activating the body’s central nervous system. The spinal cord and brain then release hormones responsible for making us feel less pain while improving overall health. In fact, a study using images of the brain confirmed that acupuncture increases our pain threshold, which may explain why it produces long-term pain relief.

Acupuncture may also increase blood circulation and adjust body temperature, affect white blood cell activity (responsible for our immune function), reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and regulate blood sugar levels.  It has been known to resolve emotional problems, assists with addiction and increases the anti-aging effect.

In addition to asking questions, the acupuncturist may take your pulse at several points along the wrist and look at the shape, color, and coating of your tongue. The acupuncturist may also look at the color and texture of your skin, your posture, and other physical characteristics that offer clues to your health. You will lie down on a padded examining table, and the acupuncturist will insert the needles, twirling or gently jiggling each as it goes in. You may not feel the needles at all, or you may feel a twitch or a quick twinge of pain that disappears when the needle is completely inserted.

Once the needles are all in place, you rest for 15 – 60 minutes. During this time, you’ll probably feel relaxed and sleepy and may even doze off. At the end of the session, the acupuncturist quickly and painlessly removes the needles.