Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is based on an ancient system of body meridians and their energy, also called Qi.

Meridians follow an energetic pathway in the body which can not be seen but are similar to the idea of radio waves in the air -  you cannot see radio waves but when you listen to a radio station you know they are there.  Each meridian has its own pathway,  just like each station has its own frequency.

If you tune into the wrong station you  get static and need to adjust the dial.  If your meridians are out of sync, or tuned into “the wrong station” acupuncture needles can be used to adjust them, allowing normal reception of qi.

How does acupuncture treat pain and/or illness?

When your body is out of tune or out of balance you may begin to exhibit physical or emotional symptoms of illness.  By tuning  acupuncture needles a practitioner can stimulate the nervous system, release hormones and increase the flow of blood and fluid in the body.  This may result in responses such as a:  relaxation of muscles, decrease in blood pressure, reduction in pain levels and more.

How big are acupuncture needles and do they hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very small and hair thin. They are solid and designed to fit through the pores of the skin, not to cut tissues like a hypodermic needle.  Needles are inserted under the surface of the skin quickly and with little or no pain.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

The benefits of acupuncture include:

• Increase in your immune function which can result in fewer colds and flus;
• Relaxation of tight muscles;
• Better sleep;
• Pain relief and improved pain management;
• Increased energy;
• Improved function of all body systems (e.g., better digestion, decrease in blood pressure, relief from   menopause symptoms etc.).

What happens at my first acupuncture appointment?

Your first appointment will include a health history, lifestyle assessment, acupuncture treatment and discussion about what you can do to enhance treatment effects.

LalliCare Clinic Acupuncturist

Registered Acupuncturist Anne Vardy  (R.Ac.) has studied traditional Chinese medicine in Victoria, Calgary and China.  She has been with Lalli Care Clinic since 2007 and previously was an instructor and clinical supervisor at the Oshio College of Acupuncture and Herbology.

Anne incorporates a variety of techniques into her Traditional Chinese Medicine practice including acupuncture, cupping and tui na.    Anne works with many type of injuries and health issues and has a special interest in the effects of chronic stress on our bodies.  She often finds clients physical pain, digestive problems, insomnia and other illness are impacted by emotional stresses on the body.