What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years and involves the insertion of very fine needles on the body's surface, used to influence physiological functioning of the body. It is based on the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

From a Western Medicine perspective acupuncture is thought to stimulate the immune system, promote release of endorphins (mood elevating neurotransmitters) and enkephalins (pain killing neurotransmitters) and enhance circulation.

What is Acupuncture Used For?

Acupuncture can be used to treat any medical condition, but we find it especially effective for painful conditions like:
Headaches and Migraines
Joint pain
Back and neck pain
Endometriosis
And much more!

Acupuncture for Infertility

We also frequently use acupuncture to treat infertility problems either along with conventional treatment or on its' own. There is substantial research showing improved effectiveness of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment if done in conjunction with acupuncture. Studies have also shown acupuncture to be effective for normalizing the function of the ovaries in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).  We have used it along with naturopathic treatment to help many patients achieve a healthy term pregnancy.

What happens in an acupuncture session?

After an initial detailed assessment visit (about 60 minutes), an acupuncture visit typically lasts about 40 minutes. Sterile, disposable needles are always used at our clinic, they are used once and thrown in the biohazardous waste so that there is no chance of any disease transmission or infection. The needles are extremely fine, not much thicker than a hair.  They are inserted in acupuncture points that lie along meridians that connect to the various organs to influence organ function. The acupuncture needles stay in for about 20 minutes.

What does acupuncture feel like?

You may feel an initial tiny pin prick sensation, after that most patients describe the sensation as a feeling of deep pressure, a tingling or electrical sensation. Most sensation subsides in the first 2-3 minutes of the treatment. We may stimulate the needles 1-2 more times during the session for you to get the most out of it.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

Aside from relief of pain, most people report feeling either very relaxed or very energized after an acupuncture session.   For our fertility patients, they often achieve a healthy pregnancy and birth without drugs or invasive procedures.

How many treatments do I need?

For most patients, we recommend once per week for 6 weeks.  Ongoing maintenance after that may or may not be necessary, but if it is, we recommend once per month.

How much does acupuncture cost?

After the initial naturopathic ($175) or acupuncture only ($120) assessment, acupuncture treatment visits cost $65 + HST.  You can use your naturopathic doctor coverage to cover your acupuncture treatments by our naturopathic doctors.

 

What Kind of Training Should an Acupuncturist Have?

Our naturopathic doctors are also trained as acupuncture practitioners in Traditional Chinese acupuncture as part of their 4 year Naturopathic Doctor training.  Some acupuncture practitioners have only completed weekend training in acupuncture for specific problems like back or joint pain.  We recommend seeing either a licensed naturopathic doctor or a licensed acupuncturist (designated LAc) as they are the most qualified to perform acupuncture safely.

For insurance purposes, acupuncture done by a naturopathic doctor would be covered under naturopathic coverage.  Acupuncture by a licensed acupuncturist would be covered under your acupuncture coverage.  Other acupuncture practitioners may not be covered at all.