Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) & Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a natural form of medicine that originated in ancient China over 2,000 years ago. Rooted in Chinese philosophy and refined through centuries of practice, TCM focuses on promoting, maintaining, and restoring health by supporting the body’s natural balance and healing abilities. Treatments are individualized and work to address both symptoms and underlying patterns of imbalance.

Acupuncture is one of the most commonly practiced therapies within TCM. It involves the gentle insertion of thin, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. These points are located along pathways called channels or meridians, which form an interconnected network believed to support communication and balance throughout the body. Because the body functions as an integrated system, acupuncture points located away from the area of discomfort may be used to help address a condition. This is why points on the hand may be selected to help relieve headaches.

There are over 360 commonly used acupuncture points located along 14 meridians on the body. During treatment, needles are typically retained for 20-40 minutes while the body enters a relaxed, parasympathetic state. Acupuncture is used to support the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy), regulate the body’s internal systems, and promote overall physical and emotional wellbeing. In TCM theory, this helps restore harmony and balance between Yin and Yang.

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Your acupuncture treatments may include:

  • Acupuncture

  • Chinese herbal medicine

  • Cupping

  • Gua Sha

  • Tui Na

Acupuncture therapy may help with:

  • Women’s Health:  Menopause, perimenopause, hot flashes, painful periods, irregular periods, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, infertility, hormonal imbalance, pregnancy support, fatigue.

  • Stress and Anxiety:  Acute and chronic stress, anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, fatigue, brain fog, forgetfulness, worry.

  • Digestion:  Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, haemorrhoids, acid reflux, nausea,  poor appetite, food cravings.

  • Sleep: Insomnia, disrupted sleep, poor sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, waking up too early, night sweating.

  • Pain:  Headaches, migraines, muscle pain, muscle tension, back pain, joint pain, arthritis, TMJ/jaw pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain, hand/wrist pain, hip pain, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, injuries and sciatica.

  • Skin and Hair:  Acne, eczema, rashes, scarring, fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, sagging, hair loss and thinning.

  • Respiratory:  Asthma, shortness of breath, cough, common cold.

  • Illness prevention: Strengthening the immune system, promoting circulation, relaxing mind and body, improving digestion, supporting restful sleep.

Frequently asked questions

  • Our acupuncturists treat patients aged 12 and up.

  • Acupuncture needles are very thin so discomfort is rare.  People often don’t feel them inserted at all. Common sensations felt at the points where needles are placed are  warmth, tingling, activation or heaviness.  Each person is different so the sensations felt will be unique to each.  Most people experience deep relaxation during and after treatment.  You might even fall asleep. 

  • When visiting a TCM practitioner and/or acupuncturist for the first time, the practitioner will take a detailed medical and symptomatic history, and will perform a physical assessment. After this, they will provide you with a TCM diagnosis and individualized treatment plan to determine the most beneficial therapy for you, which may include acupuncture, cupping, herbal formulas, Guasha, or Tuina massage.

  • If you are using extended health benefits, please check with your insurance provider. Some insurance companies require referrals for services.

    • We do bill directly to insurance

    • We do take motor vehicle accident (MVA) claims

    • We do not accept WSIB claims

    • We do not accept OHIP referrals