About acupuncture
Our Edmonton acupuncture clinic uses traditional practices, as supported by an evolving body of scientific knowledge, to help our patients. Acupuncture works through the nervous system, endocrine/hormone systems and the immune system. Increasingly, it is recognized as a complementary therapy that augments medical practices.
Acupuncture is effective in treating painful conditions and many common ailments. It involves the insertion of superfine needles into specific points on the body in order to prevent and treat disease and improve overall health. It is a safe and economical therapy with virtually no negative side effects.
Read our blogs that talk about the science of acupuncture…
What are the needles like? Are they safe?
The needles are sterile, disposable, and ultra-thin. People experience acupuncture treatments differently, but most feel little or no pain as the needles are inserted. Once inserted, the sensation is often felt as a mild to moderate fullness or tingling, and a general feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.
Sometimes bruising or discomfort is perceived at the needle site after treatment, but significant problems associated with acupuncture are extraordinarily rare. Aside from the 3 years of coursework required in Alberta, registered acupuncturists (R.Ac.) also undergo several hundred hours of practical and clinical training to ensure safe and effective handling of needles.
What pain conditions can acupuncture treat?
- Low Back and Neck Pain
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Headache and Migraine
- Shoulder dysfunction
- Tennis Elbow
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- TMJ
- Fibromyalgia
- Cancer Pain, Nausea
Can acupuncture treat more than pain?
In addition to treating their primary concerns, people often report additional benefits such as increased energy and vitality, restorative sleep, healthier appetite, greater enjoyment of life, better handling of stressful situations, and an overall sense of well-being.
Stress-related health problems
- Difficulty sleeping
- Hypertension
- Stress, depression, anxiety
- Addictions
- Digestive problems
For more information about acupuncture research visit the Society for Acupuncture Research.
In modern times acupuncture has been validated by scientific research, and continues to evolve as it integrates with modern medicine in complementary and synergistic ways.
Can acupuncture help with reproductive health, labour, and menopause?
Yes! It helps balance many complex metabolic functions of the body, including the neuro-hormonal dimensions of health, since it addresses root constitutional imbalances as opposed to symptoms alone.
- Menopause
- PMS, Subfertility
- Prostatitis, erectile dysfunction
- Labour and delivery (induction, easing pain and duration)
For more information, see our webpage on reproductive health.
Needles not for you? Alternatives like ear seeds, acupressure, and laser acupuncture.
For some people, fear of or sensitivity to needles can prevent them from receiving the assistance of acupuncture for commonly treated problems. At our Edmonton acupuncture clinic, we offer a variety of non-needle options for people who are sensitive to needles. These include acupressure, ear seed therapy, transcutaneous electro-stimulation, and low-level laser stimulation of acupoints. Ear seeds, laser acutherapy, and electrostimulation can all be part of a full 50 minute session.
Ear seed therapy (auricular therapy) is offered when our Edmonton acupuncture community clinics are operating – this is the time you can schedule an ear seed session!
“Low-level laser” therapy is safe, pain-free, and scientifically demonstrated to be effective in stimulating acupoints, decreasing pain & inflammation, and stimulating tissue regeneration.