acupuncture

what is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a technique used in Traditional Chinese Medicine that originated around 3000 years ago. TCM acupuncture (Traditional Chinese acupuncture) involves the use of very thin, sterilized, single use needles that are inserted in various areas of the body through the skin into the underlying tissues. The practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine and TCM Acupuncture is gaining acceptance and traction in North America. Research and teaching of using Chinese acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbs is growing within North American Colleges and Universities.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

According to Eastern thought, Chinese acupuncture stimulates the Qi (or energy) of the internal organs to work better. From a Western or biochemical perspective, we are still trying to fully understand how acupuncture works. We know that acupuncture can affect all of the organ systems of the body including cardiovascular, endocrine, immune, gastrointestinal and genitourinary, and we have numerous studies that show that acupuncture is beneficial, but we are still unravelling the “how”. The current theories stem from the acupuncture needles stimulating neural pathways and local circulation, triggering body wide responses.

WHAT IS ELECTROACUPUNCTURE?

In the realm of healthcare, acupuncture with electric stimulation bridges the gap between traditional medicine and modern science, offering valuable therapeutic benefits. Needles are still used, then a small electrode is attached to them. A gentle amount of electricity runs through and gives slight stimulation to the acupuncture point. This helps to restore the smooth flow of Qi, the life force. Our Registered Acupuncturists often incorporate this technique into their treatments to enhance the outcomes.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture can affect all of the organs of the body and can often be added to an individualized treatment protocol for most conditions. The most common concerns that the Naturopathic Doctors and Registered Acupuncturists at Natural Choice Medical Clinic have been treating with acupuncture include:

Visit our Fertility/IVF Acupuncture and Pregnancy and Labour Support Acupuncture pages for more information about those additional services.

DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?

The needles used for Chinese acupuncture are extremely thin; much thinner than your average needles used for injections or blood draws. Therefore, there is usually little if any pain experienced during acupuncture. You may experience a slight pinch as the needle is inserted and possibly a very mild dull ache while the needles are in place. The dull ache is a sign that the body is responding to the needles and that the treatment is doing what it should. After treatment, patients tend to feel relaxed and have a general feeling of well-being.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WOULD I NEED?

The number of treatments varies greatly depending on the concern. Results could be seen in as few as 1 or 2 treatments of an acute problem or as many as a few months of weekly treatments to shift hormones. Your practitioner will discuss the expected treatment duration before starting your acupuncture treatment.

FACIAL REJUVENATION ACUPUNCTURE

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture is a natural, non-invasive treatment designed to support healthy aging from the inside out. By combining facial acupuncture with whole-body treatment, this approach helps improve skin tone, circulation, and overall wellness while promoting relaxation and balance. Unlike treatments that focus only on the surface, facial acupuncture works to support the body as a whole, helping you look and feel your best naturally. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, skin health is closely connected to internal balance and circulation, which is why treatments often include both facial and body acupuncture points to support overall wellness.

Treatments are personalized based on your skin concerns, health history, and goals.

Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture may help support: