What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a time-tested traditional Chinese medicine therapy that has been practised in the Far East for thousands of years. The theory behind acupuncture treatment is that the healthy functioning of the body is governed by the flow of "qi" (often translated as "energy") through a system of energy channels under the skin. When this flow of qi is impaired, illness occurs.
By inserting fine needles at various points along the channels, the body's balance can be restored and the illness resolved.
Blockages in the flow of qi can manifest as pain, hot or cold sensations, or colour changes. These signs, along with pulse and tongue diagnosis can help determine which points and channels are most suitable for treatment.
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment, which means that it takes into account the whole person, including their emotional and mental well-being, rather than just treating the symptoms of the health condition. This holistic approach can make it an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, as well as a useful complement to other forms of treatment.
The goal of acupuncture is for the patient to experience enhanced health benefits, such as increased blood flow, and an overall improvement in the daily quality of life.
The practice of acupuncture is usually performed by licensed practitioners who have completed extensive training in the technique. The needles used are thin and sterilized, and the practitioner will typically use between five and 20 needles in a single treatment. The needles are left in place for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition being treated.
What Acupuncture Can Treat
Acupuncture is particularly effective in treating chronic pain conditions such as low back pain, headaches, and osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that acupuncture is as effective as, or even more effective than, conventional treatments for these conditions.
Additionally, acupuncture is often used to treat conditions such as infertility, addiction, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Some of the other problems that acupuncture can treat include:
- Nausea caused by surgical anesthesia and cancer chemotherapy
- Dental pain after surgery
- Headaches
- Menstrual cramps
- Tennis elbow
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Low back pain
- Chronic fatigue
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Asthma
- Poor sleep quality
Acupuncture can be an especially effective treatment when combined with the use of conventional medicine, especially in areas such as pain management. Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular in Ottawa, as more and more people are turning to this ancient practice for relief from the ailments above.
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3 August 2022Dr Stoltz has been an amazing Chiropractor for me.
Originally I had been hesitant to try chiro as I was nervous about adjustments and possible injury. Dr Stoltz was both patient... read moreChristopher Smith
27 March 2022Honest, professional and effective. I have been suffering through back pain for the past 2 years. I spent thousands of dollars on physiotherapy, massage, and other forms of relief. The... read more
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What To Expect on Your First Visit
During the first acupuncture appointment, the acupuncturist will assess your general health. As each treatment is unique to the individual, this will facilitate the most effective treatment for each patient's individual health condition.
During this comprehensive evaluation, the practitioner will observe your emotions, voice and self-presentation. This will further aid in the diagnosis and development of a treatment that will assist in harmonizing your overall energy.
Specific acupuncture points will be chosen and the practitioner begins treatment. The first session may last up to two hours. Subsequent treatments will last approximately one hour. Dietary and other recommendations will be discussed at appropriate times throughout the treatment process.
FAQs
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about acupuncture in Ottawa:
No, you do not need a referral to see an acupuncturist in Ontario.
OHIP does not cover the costs of acupuncture therapy. However, some private insurance companies may.
In Ontario, acupuncture is a “regulated treatment procedure,” which means that it can be provided legally by 11 different professions in the course of their services: Chiropractors, Chiropodists, Medical Doctors, Dentists, Naturopathic Doctors, Occupational Therapists, Nurses, Registered Acupuncturists, Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners, Physiotherapists, and Registered Massage Therapists. Each of these must meet the legal requirements of its own regulatory college in order to provide acupuncture.
Hours of operation:
Monday
8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Tuesday
8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Wednesday
8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Thursday
8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday
8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Sunday
Closed
