FAQ
Does acupuncture hurt?
This is the first question new patients ask about acupuncture and the answer is NO. Acupuncture stimulates specific points along the body using very thin, solid metal needles to penetrate the skin. The needles have a round edge so they don’t cut the skin (unlike the hollow needles used for vaccines and injections).​ Note that everyone does have a different sensitivity level, there are more sensitive areas on the body than others (such as our hands, feet, etc.).​ It is normal to feel some sensations during your treatment such as pressure, tingling, a heavy sensation and even feeling of warmth.​ If you feel a sharp pain, you should let your Acupuncturist know. Most of the time, pain or discomfort is fleeting and lasts only a few seconds.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by communicating with the nervous system in order to promote the body’s own self-healing and pain control mechanisms. When a needle is inserted into the body the inflammatory response is initiated which increases local blood flow and promotes blood circulation to the tissues. This in turn promotes tissue regeneration which leads to healing.
Does acupuncture work instantly?
While some people feel immediate relief after their first acupuncture session, it’s important to understand that acupuncture works cumulatively. Chronic conditions typically require a series of treatments to achieve lasting results, whereas acute issues may improve within just a few sessions (followed by occasional maintenance).
A typical treatment plan ranges from 5 to 10 sessions, but this can vary based on your specific condition and how your body responds. Everyone is different, which is why the initial assessment is so important. It helps us get a clear picture of what’s going on in your body so we can create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
If you have questions about what treatments may be right for you, feel free to send an email—I’d be happy to chat!
Is acupuncture only for pain relief?
Acupuncture is famous for treatment pain, it supports a wide range of conditions including, but not limited to:
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Anxiety, depression, and stress
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Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain/cramping etc.)
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Women's health (menstrual irregularities, painful periods, PMS/PMDD, PCOS, menopause, endometriosis, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, UTI etc.)
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Migraines and headaches (stress, weather, menstrual cycle, menopause etc.)
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Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep/staying asleep, early morning waking and unable to return to sleep, restlessness, dream-disturbed sleep, racing thoughts, daytime fatigue, frequent waking during the night etc.)
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Allergies and immune support (sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, nose, throat, and skin, supports recovery from frequent colds, infections, or lingering fatigue, strengthens Wei Qi (defensive energy) to help the body resist illness, reduces inflammation etc.)
Is acupuncture just “PLACEBO?”
Acupuncture is not a placebo. It has been studied and proven effective from a strictly scientific, physiological perspective. There are multiple studies showing how acupuncture affects the nervous system, hormone regulation, and blood circulation, leading to real, measurable changes in the body. It stimulates endorphins, reduces inflammation, and influences how the body perceives and processes pain. Its mechanism of action has been documented and recognized as a valid form of therapy by the World Health Organization.
Is acupuncture covered under Extended Health Benefits?
Yes, most extended health benefits plans in Canada include coverage for acupuncture and/or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) services. Please note that most insurance plans only reimburse treatments provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) who is licensed by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).
You can submit your invoice to your insurance provider for reimbursement, depending on the details of the plan selected by your employer.
To determine your eligibility, check under “Paramedical Services” for Acupuncture coverage.
What can I expect on my first visit? (Cupping/Gua Sha)
Your initial cupping and/or gua sha session is 75 minutes long and includes a comprehensive intake and health assessment. During this time, we’ll discuss the main reason for your visit and explore how your other bodily systems are functioning to understand your health as a whole.
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After the assessment, we’ll begin a personalized treatment using cupping, gua sha, or a combination of both, depending on your specific needs. This first session gives us time to talk through your health goals, address any concerns you may have, and create a customized treatment plan to support your healing journey.
Please note: Once you’ve completed this initial intake, you won’t need another one for future services—as long as your next treatment is within six months of your last visit.
How do I make the most of my Acupuncture appointment?
BEFORE:
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Avoid / limit caffeine
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Wear comfortable / loose clothing
DURING:
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Turn your phone off
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Practice mindful breathing
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Meditate
AFTER:
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Stay hydrated
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Enjoy and relax for the rest of the day
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Go for a nice walk
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Avoid heavy lifting / HIIT exercises
What is the difference between an Acupuncturist and an “Acupuncture Provider?”
As of April 1, 2013, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) became regulated health professions in Ontario. This means the title "Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac)" is protected by law and can only be used by those who meet the standards set by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).
Under this regulation, physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and dentists are permitted to perform acupuncture needling within their own scope of practice, but they are not legally allowed to use the title "Acupuncturist." To distinguish themselves, these practitioners often use the term “Acupuncture Provider.”
There is a significant difference in training:
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Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) complete over 2,000 hours of in-class education, plus a supervised clinical internship. Their training includes Chinese Medicine theory and diagnostics, precise acupuncture point location (over 365 points), and proper clean needle technique.
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In contrast, Acupuncture Providers typically complete a 200–300 hour course, covering basic needling techniques and around 80–100 acupuncture points.
Choosing a Registered Acupuncturist ensures a higher level of specialized training and a more comprehensive approach to your care.
Contact
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