Principles |  Diagnosis |  Glossary

Neurological and Musculo-Skeletal Disorders

• Headache/migraine
• Back pain
• Frozen shoulder
• Tennis elbow
• Knee pain
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Trigeminal or intercostal neuralgia
• Meniere's Disease
• Facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy)
• Paralysis following stroke
• Neurogenic bladder dysfunction
• Peripheral neuropathies

Gastrointestinal Disorders

• Diarrhea, acute bacillary dysentery
• Constipation
• Acute and chronic gastritis
• Colitis
• Gastric hyperacidity
• Chronic duodenal ulcer (pain relief)

Respiratory System

• Acute sinusitis, acute rhinitis
• Common cold
• Acute bronchitis, acute tonsillitis, acute and chronic pharyngitis
• Bronchial asthma (esp. children and in those without complications)

Disorders of the Mouth

• Toothache
• Gingivitis
• Post-extraction pain

Disorders of the Eye

• Acute conjunctivitis, central retinitis
• Myopia (in children)
• Cataracts (without complications)

This is not a list of limitations for acupuncture, as acupuncture can treat many other diseases, but it is an indication of some of the disorders that the WHO has deemed effective based on clinical experience.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

A: The needles are so thin that ten to fifteen acupuncture needles can be placed in one hypodermic (injection) needle. The sensation that is expected from acupuncture is not painful, i.e. not what you would expect from a needle. The sensation is called "de qi" and it can include numbness, aching, tingling, warmth, distension, heaviness, or lightness. The sensation can be local or it may radiate. Many people find acupuncture is actually very relaxing and often fall asleep.

Q: How safe is acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is very safe. In British Columbia, acupuncturists must be licensed (see question below regarding designations) and all acupuncturists are required to take a two-day acupuncture safety course which includes clean needle technique (including disposable sterile needles) and acupoint safety. As with any medical treatment, there may be risks involved for the individual and it is important to discuss these with your practitioner.

Q: Is acupuncture covered by medical insurance?

A: Many extended health insurance plans do cover up to $500 of acupuncture each year. Check with your health insurance provider for details.

Q: What other options for treatment do I have if I do not want needles?

A: Traditional Chinese Medicine offers more treatment options than just acupuncture. Acupressure, cupping, moxibustion, and tui na massage are alternative options. Chinese herbs can also be combined specifically to suit your needs and your body's constitution. Food suggestions can also be made.

Q: How do I take the Chinese herbs?

A: There are many options now available. Traditionally, most Chinese herbs are given uncooked to the patient who boils them and drinks the resulting broth. As many people may find this to be time-consuming, there are easy alternatives. We use concentrated herbal powders that can be combined specifically to suit each patient's needs. The powders are simply mixed in warm or hot water and consumed two to three times daily. The powders can also be put into capsules. Pre-made Chinese herbal formulas are also available in capsule, tablet, tea, and tincture forms.

Q: How do I know about the quality and safety of the Chinese herbs?

A: Because the properties of each herb are inherent on the soil in which they are grown, it is important that they are grown in the right region to optimize their medicinal benefits. Thus, most of the herbs are grown in various areas of China. To ensure their quality and safety, the herbs are tested, processed, and packaged in plants that comply with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) requirements. Most of the herbal companies that we use are located in the United States and have their own regulations through the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). When the herbs are imported into Canada, they must again pass rigorous Canadian standards and testing.

Q: There are so many different titles of Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners. How do I choose one and what do the designations mean?

A: In British Columbia, everyone who calls himself or herself an acupuncturist must be licensed by the CTCMA (College of Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners and Acupuncturists). The CTCMA is an official body established in 2000 by the Government of British Columbia and operating under the Health Professions Act. As the licensing for acupuncture started only recently, some acupuncturists have been licensed through the Grandparent clause. This involves proving that he/she has competently practised as an acupuncturist for at least two years. For new applicants there is a two-day licensing exam involving a written test and a practical test for each of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and the Dr. licensing titles.

Q: Can I combine TCM treatment with conventional medicine?

A: Acupuncture is easily combined with conventional medicine, including prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. If, however, you are taking blood thinners or immuno-suppressive medications, it is suggested to inform your acupuncturist.

Chinese herbals can also safely be combined with pharmaceutical medication, western herbs, homeopathic medicines, or vitamins and minerals. An initial consultation will allow the TCM practitioner to assess your constitution and prepare an herbal formulation specifically for you. It is also advisable to take your Chinese herbs at a time apart from when you take your pharmaceutical medications to minimize any potential interactions.

Q: How many treatments will I need?

A: The number of treatments will vary from person to person, depending on the duration and severity of the illness, injury, or symptoms. As a general rule, the longer the duration of the problem and the more severe the symptoms, the more treatments will be required. For example, a recent sprain may require only 1-3 treatments, more closely timed; while degenerative disk disease will need at least a few months of treatments, but the treatments will be spaced farther apart.

The number of acupuncture treatments required may be lessened if Chinese herbals and dietary changes are also incorporated. Combining herbs and acupuncture is an efficient and effective to speed the healing time and reduce costs.

Principles |  Diagnosis |  Glossary