Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the act of inserting very thin needles into very specific points in the body. These points have been used for thousands of years, and each point is believed to have a specific effect on the body. Combined with a thorough history and assessment by the practitioner, acupuncture is used to restore balance to the patient's body. Acupuncture is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture is based on the concept of the body being made up of a complex system of channels throughout that distribute Qi or Life Force to our tissues. If there is an obstruction, or imbalance, health issues occur. Acupuncture works to clear those obstructions, restore balance, and allows the body to heal itself.
Acupuncture is a complete medical system in itself, and is also an excellent compliment to almost any other treatment, including Western pharmaceuticals, surgery, herbal therapies, massage, athletic therapy, chiropractic and physiotherapy.
Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical practices that is still in use today and is used to treat almost all ailments. It is a drug-free, non-surgical intervention that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of many different conditions, including: depression, anxiety, insomnia, pain, headaches, allergies, asthma, digestion, skin conditions, common colds and flu, PMS, infertility, and addictions (acupuncturealberta.ca).
Prairie Therapy Acupuncturists
Click on a picture to meet our team members!
Pain during acupuncture is a common worry for people, as many people associate needles with pain. However, the needles used in acupuncture are small and ultra-thin, similar in thickness to a strand of hair - less than 1/4 of a millimeter thick! Because of this, there is usually little if any pain during acupuncture. You will usually feel a sensation that can range from tingling to heaviness, to warmth, or even nothing at all. Each person’s experience is different. Should you experience any pain or discomfort, inform your practitioner, and they will adjust the needles.
All needles used at Prairie Therapy are single-use, pre-sterilized and pre-packaged needles that are safely disposed immediately after being used.
No, you do not need a physician’s referral to see an acupuncturist.
Most extended health care providers provide some coverage for acupuncture treatments. They may have benefits dedicated to acupuncture specifically, or they may have pooled benefits that cover a variety of treatments including acupuncture. However, all policies are different. We recommend you check your policy or contact your provider to confirm what services are available to you.
Acupuncture and dry needling both use the same tools. Dry needling tends to be a more targeted approach, focusing on one or only a few muscles or other structures. Acupuncture is a more holistic approach to complete body healing and is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although they are both very effective tools, acupuncture also tends to be more comfortable than dry needling.