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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acupuncture?


Acupuncture is a safe and effective form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for thousands of years. Acupuncture involves the use of very fine, disposable needles inserted into specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi. These points are located on meridians or energy pathways through which vital Qi-energy runs. It is rarely painful but is relaxing and provides a sense of renewed energy and wellbeing.

How can Acupuncture help me?


The aim of Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture is to restore your health by removing the cause, correcting abnormal function, opposing the imbalance and normalizing the flow of your Qi. Unbalanced diet, lifestyle or environmental factors disrupt the flow of Qi, manifesting as symptoms of disease. Acupuncture initiates and engages the body's own healing mechanisms.

What is Qi?


The basis of acupuncture is an energy force known as Qi (pronounced "chee"). A person's health is influenced by the flow of this energy (Qi) in the body. If the flow of Qi is insufficient, unbalanced or interrupted, illness may occur.


Qi travels throughout the body along pathways called "channels". The acupuncture points are specific locations where the channels are accessible and where Qi is easily directed by the placement of needles, moxibustion or acupressure. Acupuncture is used to balance the opposing forces of yin and yang, keep the normal flow of Qi unblocked, and maintain or restore health to the body and mind.

What is Acupuncture used for?


Acupuncture is a beneficial form of treatment for many injuries, illnesses and chronic symptoms: Muscular Skeletal pain ( Back and Neck, Sciatica, Shoulder, Tennis Elbow and Knee), Sports injuries, Migraine Headaches, Facial pain (TMJ), Emotional Pain (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia), Seasonal allergies, Sinusitis, Female Complaints (Menstrual disorders, Fatigue, Infertility, IVF/IUF support, Morning sickness), Digestive Complaints (Gastritis, Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel ), Chronic Degenerative Diseases (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia) Asthma, Postoperative pain etc. For a more complete list see Conditions Treated.


Acupuncture is also used as a preventative medicine. Many patients have acupuncture as a balancing treatment. This helps prevent disease and promotes health, energy and vitality.

What happens during Acupuncture?


A full health history is taken detailing your overall wellness and functioning. You will be examined for points on the body that are tender or painful to assess where Qi may be blocked or not flowing correctly. Points are chosen as they relate to certain body functions or health problems. Several very thin needs will be placed into your skin according to a Traditional Chinese Medicine differential diagnosis.

What does Acupuncture feel like?


Most patients feel insertion of the needles in the following way:

  • unnoticed/no sensation
  • small pinch followed by a sensation of tingling, numbness, ache, warmth, or heaviness
  • movement of energy at a distance from the point of insertion

Most patients find acupuncture to be a very relaxing experience (many people fall asleep) and notice an improvement in their symptoms following their treatment.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Please call the clinic at (519) 751-5109 to schedule an initial appointment or email ccfclinic@bell.net.


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