Acupuncture Services in Calgary
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique dating back 5000 years. It was documented and publicized in the U.S. National Institutes of Health in 1997 for its safety and ability to treat many conditions.
Through the stimulation of acupoints by fine, sterile needles, acupuncture can improve the body's functions and alleviate pain. At times other techniques will be used in relation to enhance the therapy, including:
Like other areas of physiotherapy at Sincere Clinic, acupuncture focuses on a whole-body approach, and holistic healing over time.
If you suffer from chronic pain—especially back pain, headaches, arthritis or even anxiety, you could be a prime candidate for acupuncture treatment. Visit our Calgary clinic today for a consultation!
Book an Appointment for Acupuncture ServicesAcupuncture Electrical Stimulation
Acupuncture electrical stimulation, also known as electroacupuncture, enhances traditional acupuncture by applying a mild electric current to the needles.
This technique is especially beneficial for conditions involving chronic pain or muscle spasms, as the electrical pulses work to increase the therapeutic effects of needle stimulation. By doing so, it can accelerate healing by further promoting circulation and reducing inflammation, making it a more effective treatment option for many individuals.
Overall, acupuncture with electrical stimulation offers a powerful, advanced approach to relieving pain and promoting faster recovery.
Cupping and Acupuncture
Cupping involves using glass or silicone cups to form a suction effect on the skin, which in turn stimulates blood flow and muscle relaxation.
When this technique is combined with acupuncture, it relieves tension prior to the use of needles and further enhances the body’s healing response. As a result, it helps to release toxins and reduce deep muscle tension.
Moreover, cupping is particularly effective for alleviating back and neck pain, providing stress relief, and addressing respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis.
Acupuncture Massage
Acupuncture massage blends the principles of acupuncture with therapeutic massage techniques to provide a holistic healing experience. This combined approach targets acupuncture points to balance energy flow while simultaneously using massage to relax muscles and improve circulation.
By integrating these methods, acupuncture massage addresses both physical tension and energy blockages, thereby enhancing overall well-being. We stand behind this treatment method because it proves effective for relieving stress, easing chronic pain, and promoting relaxation.
The result is a comprehensive treatment that not only alleviates discomfort but also supports the body’s natural healing processes. Whether you’re seeking relief from specific ailments or simply looking for general wellness benefits, acupuncture massage offers a powerful, integrated solution for a healthier, more balanced life.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the belief that the body’s energy, also known as “Qi,” flows through specific pathways called meridians. By placing thin, sterile needles at precise locations, acupuncture stimulates these meridians, which in turn helps to rebalance the flow of energy.
As a result, this process is intended to trigger your body’s natural healing mechanisms, reducing pain, decreasing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being.
Additionally, research shows that acupuncture works well by helping the nervous system. It does this by releasing endorphins and improving blood flow, making it a proven effective treatment for many conditions.
What are the Side Effects of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is generally regarded as an effective, safe treatment when performed by a licensed practitioner.
Common side effects are minimal, but may include:
What Can Acupuncture Help With?
Acupuncture is highly effective in targeting and treating a wide range of conditions and ailments, including the following:
How Long After Acupuncture Do You See Results?
Acupuncture is a gradual process, and results can vary. It may take several weeks before you start seeing noticeable improvements from regular acupuncture sessions. However, the good news is that once you begin to feel the benefits, they’re often long-lasting, delivering sustained results rather than short-term relief.
What Are the Signs Acupuncture Is Working?
Some common signs that acupuncture is working include:
These signs may differ from person to person, but they all indicate that the acupuncture treatment is in full effect.
How Do You Make Acupuncture More Effective?
To get the most out of your acupuncture sessions and see faster results, try:
Can You Have Physical Therapy and Acupuncture at the Same Time?
Yes, you can absolutely receive physical therapy and acupuncture simultaneously. These two treatments can complement each other and enhance your overall recovery process. While physical therapy focuses on rebuilding strength and restoring movement, acupuncture reduces pain, promotes relaxation, and improves energy levels. Combining both therapies can provide a more comprehensive healing approach, offering quicker relief and improved results.
Always keep your healthcare provider informed about all treatments you receive to ensure they’re effectively coordinated.
Does Insurance Cover Acupuncture?
Many insurance plans cover acupuncture, but it’s important to check with your provider. Some plans may partially cover the costs or require a referral from a primary care doctor. Contact your insurance company directly to find out what benefits are available for acupuncture, including any limitations or requirements.
If You Have Concerns
Clients who are new to acupuncture always want to know two things—if it hurts and if it’s safe.
While the needles can cause a heavy feeling or numbness, this is a sign that the therapy is working. As the needles are so fine, pain is rarely an associated feeling.
In terms of safety, sterile and disposable needles are always used.
Clients with hemophilia or who are far along in pregnancy will be treated with extra care and caution.
If you have a phobia of needles, laser acupuncture will be offered.
Prepping for Your First Appointment
Once you have arranged an acupuncture session with your therapist at Sincere Clinic, they will inform you of some dos and don’ts pre-treatment, including:
Once you arrive, much like other intro therapy sessions, your acupuncturist will discuss your pain and your goals for recovery. This is how they will determine the meridians in which to place the acupuncture needles.
How Long Should You Wait Between Acupuncture Treatments?
It’s important to space your acupuncture treatments appropriately for the best results. Typically, you should wait about a week between sessions. This gap gives your body enough time to respond to the treatment naturally and allows its effects to set in. With regular sessions spaced out over weeks, you can gradually track and notice improvements in your condition.
Our acupuncturists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs and goals.
Your First Appointment at Sincere Clinic
While most continuing acupuncture sessions only last 15-20 minutes, your first session could be double that, or more. This is to allow for a full assessment and discussion regarding your treatment. At this point you can ask your therapist any questions you may have.
Your therapist will require documentation of any recent blood work, and information on any medications, herbs or supplements you take.
Some questions you will be asked may seem strange, but acupuncture is a unique and different style of therapy that relates to different parts of your body than physical or medical therapy usually does. Physiotherapy deals with your bodily humors what lays beneath the surface rather than that vague back pain you're feeling.
After a basic physical checkup, your therapy can begin. Expect your therapist to use between 4 and 15 needles at a time.
Following your first appointment, you may be given herbs to take and/or exercises to do at home between appointments to strengthen your system.
Looking for acupuncture services in Calgary? Contact us at (403) 230-5553.