Service Description

What Is Acupuncture? Traditional Chinese Medicine theorizes that there are approximately 365 acupuncture points on the human body that connects with 12 main and 8 secondary pathways, called meridians. These meridians create an energy flow and conduct energy or Qi (pronounced “chee”) between the surface of the body and internal organs, and is responsible for overall health. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting the skin with hair-thin needles (filiform) at particular locations, called acupuncture points, to enhance the flow of Qi. Acupuncture is used to balance and keep the normal flow of energy unblocked, and restore health to the body and mind. Traditional Chinese medicine practices (e.g. acupuncture, herbs, diet, massage, cupping, moxibustion, exercises, etc.) all are intended to improve the flow of Qi. When you are healthy, Qi flows smoothly and the body is balanced. Does It Hurt? The acupuncture needles are so thin that 10 to 15 acupuncture needles can be placed in one hypodermic (injection) needle. The sensation that is expected from acupuncture is not painful (i.e. not what you would expect from a needle). The sensation is called “De Qi” and it can include numbness, aching, tingling, warmth, distension, heaviness, or lightness. The sensation can be local or it may radiate. Many people find acupuncture is actually very relaxing and often fall asleep. How Safe Is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is very safe. In Vancouver and British Columbia, all acupuncturists must be licensed and are required to complete an acupuncture safety course, which includes clean needle technique (including disposable sterile needles) and acupoint safety. As with any medical treatment, there may be risks involved for the individual and it is important to discuss these with your practitioner. Is Acupuncture Covered By Medical Insurance? Many extended health insurance plans in Vancouver and British Columbia do cover up to $500-$700 of acupuncture each year. Check with your health insurance provider for details. In BC, MSP will cover a portion of your visit for qualifying individuals. Inquire with your practitioner for more details on the requirements. 什麼是針灸? 針灸是中醫師可以採用的多種治療方式之一。作為一種獨立的治療方式，針灸在治療內科與外科疾病上，都取得了巨大的成果。若與其他療法相互配合，如推拿和中藥，更可以提高治療效果。 在石器時代的主要針灸工具是一種銳利的石塊，稱為砭石針。在現代針灸中，則以不鏽鋼製成的針取而代之，針頭通常都細如頭絲，減輕入針時不會有疼痛感。 針灸原理 針灸的理論基礎是在人體的經絡系統中，通過刺激特定的穴位，讓氣血重新分配，來緩解疼痛與改善症狀。透過針灸，可以釋放身體內部阻塞的氣體，刺激功能，通過各種生理系統喚起人體的自然癒合反應。 在針灸治療過程中，患者可能會有酸、麻、腫、重等感