Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a core component of Traditional Chinese Medicine - it's a technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to promote healing. It aims to balance the flow of Qi, or "energy" within the body, which is believed to promote physical and mental wellbeing. It is a popular alternative therapy for chronic pain management, stress management, and more. With ancient roots in healing, acupuncture is continuously gaining popularity in modern medicine. 

By releasing endorphins (feel-good hormones) throughout the body, it helps to reduce pain and promote healing. 

While acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and involves the concept of "Qi" (energy), Dry needling is rooted in a Western medicine philosophy and focuses more on musculoskeletal and neurologic pain. Dry needling involves placing thin needles into knots and trigger points in the muscle to relieve muscle pain and improve range of motion. The needles used in acupuncture may be different from the needles used in dry needling as well - acupuncture needles are often slightly thinner and more flexible.

A session will typically last 20-30 minutes in length.

Acupuncture is generally considered safe if it is performed by trained professionals. At the discretion of your primary care provider, acupuncture can be used in a variety of contexts, such as chronic pain, anxiety, and others. 

In Ontario, Canada, acupuncture is considered a controlled act due to the therapeutic nature of its practice (i.e. entering below the dermis (or skin) with needles as a therapeutic approach to recovery). There are trained professionals such as Registered Acupuncturists, Registered Massage Therapists, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, and more that can deliver this service as well.  

Nurses are not typically trained in acupuncture, but there are available programs that can train Registered Nurses to deliver acupuncture therapy. After licensure, Moe & Chris will be seeking additional training at McMaster's Neuromusculoskeletal Acupuncture program to bring this service to you.