“Chinese medicine is a beautifully dynamic modality that acknowledges the uniqueness of each person. I am passionate about the medicine and supporting people on their individual path to wellness.” ~Valerie Smith, Lic. Ac.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used in China for over 3000 years for the treatment of disease. It is an energetic therapy that balances both body and spirit.
Our Qi, or vital energy, travels through channels in our bodies. When Qi becomes deficient, or slows down and stagnates, it results in physical symptoms that may manifest in many different forms including, but not limited to: chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain due to traumatic injury, fatigue, asthma and general immune system weakness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and National Institute of Health (NIH) recognize the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment for many disharmonies including but not limited to: Migraine headaches, Arthritis Pain, Depression and Anxiety, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Sciatica, IBS, PMS, Asthma and Pain Management.
Ongoing acupuncture treatments result in relief from pain, a stronger immune system, greater energy, restful sleep, more balanced emotions and relief from mental restlessness.
Stimulation of specific acupuncture points along the affected channel(s) using pre-sterilized disposable needles moves Qi and releases blockages or strengthens deficiencies.
Each acupuncture point has a particular action or effect. For instance a point located in the area of the elbow crease may be used to ‘drain heat’ to relieve a sore throat or be used in conjunction with other heat reducing points to bring down fever.
What to Expect During Each Session
During the initial visit, a full history will be taken. This will include the main complaint, as well as information regarding sleep, eating habits, medications, etc. which may seem to have no bearing on the main complaint but are significant pieces of the whole health picture from the Chinese medical perspective. At this time, and at each successive visit, the intake will also include observation of the patient’s tongue and palpation of the pulse.
The Initial treatment is booked for 1.5 hours so that a full history may be taken and any questions you have may be answered prior to treatment.
Follow-up treatments are booked for 1 hour.
It is recommended to wear loose clothing for easy access to acupuncture points on legs, arms and torso area.
Treatment plans are formulated for each individual case, taking into account each patient’s uniqueness.
24 hour cancellation policy
Patient will be charged the full appointment fee if cancellation is less than 24 hours.
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