Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment modality used by TCM practitioners. It is a technique of inserting and manipulating very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate a healing response or to relieve pain.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Because the needles are so fine, only a very minor sensation is felt when inserted. However, in order to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment, there must be some “qi sensation” as the practitioner stimulates the acupuncture point. This can feel achy and is very brief. Once the needles are properly placed, and have been adequately stimulated, the treatment is comfortable and so relaxing some individuals may actually fall asleep.
How does acupuncture work?
Very fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body and then either manually or electrically stimulated to influence physiological activity in the body. This stimulation results in a variety of therapeutic effects, depending on the goal. For example, to relieve pain, the therapeutic goal would be to stimulate or invigorate circulation in order to reduce inflammation. Or if the goal is to treat insomnia, points would be stimulated to relax the nervous system.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. When practiced by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is not only extremely safe, but side effects are considerably lower than conventional treatments.
In fact, in a 1997 Consensus Report, the United States National Institutes of Health concluded that the incidence of adverse effects for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, and tennis elbow using acupuncture were substantially lower than the effects from drugs and other medical procedures.
What does acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture has successfully treated hundreds of diseases for thousands of years. In 2003, the World Health Organization published a study of clinical trials on acupuncture and found it to be an effective treatment for 28 conditions.
Many MDs, Naturopaths and Physiotherapist perform acupuncture. Is there a difference between what they do and what a doctor of TCM does?
MDs, Naturopaths and Physiotherapists are experts in their respective fields, and although many have had some training in acupuncture, only a doctor of TCM is trained in “pattern differentiation”—the defining and most vital element which forms the basis of a TCM treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments given will depend on your condition. Acute conditions such as colds or flus only require 1 or 2 treatments whereas chronic conditions require several. Basically, the longer you’ve had your condition, the longer it will take to treat. There are however exceptions to this rule. Check our Resource Centre and Clinical Reports for more information.
Where can I find IMEG Health®testimonials?
Click HERE for our testimonials. Or review our Clinical Papers for more detailed information on our treatment outcomes.
How do I choose a practitioner?
It is important to use a competent practitioner, registered by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of BC (www.ctcma.bc.ca) in order to receive the best possible care and to protect your rights.
There are 4 professional designations within the scope of practice of TCM.
- R.Ac (Registered Acupuncturist)
- R.TCM.H (Registered TCM Herbalist)
- R.TCM.P (Registered TCM Practitioner)
- Dr.TCM (Doctor of TCM)
You should look for a practitioner with experience or training in your particular condition. For example, an excellent practitioner that helped your friend’s menstrual cramps may not be the best choice for your insomnia.
Because IMEG Health®has several doctors each with specific areas of expertise our skill set is broader than you would find in a solo practice. This also makes it easy and convenient if your condition requires a referral to another doctor for a specific condition.
Other questions about Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
If you have any other questions about acupuncture, feel free to email us at info@IMEGHealth.com or call us.