Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been part of the medical mainstream in countries such as China and Japan for centuries. It is also one of the most widely utilized forms of alternative therapy in the Canada and the US. Third-party insurance reimbursement and managed care coverage for acupuncture are increasing. Acupuncture needles are most often inserted at specific locations on the skin called acupuncture points. These points are located on specific lines outlined by tradition, referred to as meridians or channels. According to Chinese medical theory, there are 14 major meridians that form an invisible network connecting the body surface with the internal organs. Meridians are to conduct Qi, the energy or vital force of the body.

Pain or illness is said to result from imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi through the meridians. Acupuncture is traditionally thought to remove such blockages, restore the normal circulation of Qi, and improve overall health by promoting the balance of energy in the system.

Our team of certified West Vancouver acupuncture practitioners continually research the latest data on acupuncture treatments. And we’ve found recent scientific evidence that acupuncture is effective in the relief of nausea and vomiting, morning sickness during pregnancy, tendonitis, osteoarthritis, headache and neck and back pain among others. At Azalea Physiotherapy, we offer a full range of acupuncture treatments in our West Vancouver facility.

How does acupuncture work?
According to Eastern philosophy, an imbalance or energy or blood flow will lead to disease in the body. Acupuncture needles placed along specific points can improve vitality, blood circulation and restore the natural balance of the body.

What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture has proven to be successful in reducing stress, muscle tension, chronic pain (including headaches) and helping normalize menstrual irregularities. If the symptom is a result of an energy blockage within the body, acupuncture can encourage the body's natural healing response. A Registered Acupuncturist can treat more complicated issues like digestive disorders, infertility, menstrual irregularities, skin problems as well as pain and stress relief.

Does acupuncture complement other therapies?
Yes. All the chiropractors at King West Chiropractic use acupuncture for pain relief, stress reduction and as a complement to chiropractic care.

Can acupuncture help me quit smoking?
Acupuncture can help ease the cravings associated with quitting smoking. It is best advised to start with a course of acupuncture after you have decided to quit. It also helps to detox the body which further reduces cravings for those who are having a more challenging time.

Are the needles sterilized?
New disposable needles are used for each acupuncture treatment. Most treatments require 8-10 needles to be inserted for a period of 15 - 20 minutes.

Does it hurt?
No, acupuncture does not hurt. During the treatment, you may experience sensations of mild tingling, heaviness, slight soreness or numbness along the skin channel being stimulated.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

IMS is a needling technique that helps to reduce adverse tone in tight muscle bands or trigger points that contribute to pain and dysfunction. By targeting localized areas of tightness with the needle insertion a reflex relaxation is produced in the muscle. This helps to relieve pressure on tender joint structures and in the muscles themselves which in turn influences pain and inflammation produced by the adverse tightness. The special assessment is done to determine if this modality of treatment is appropriate for you.  For more information visit UBC Gunn IMS: www.ubcgunnims.com, www.istop.org