Why acupuncture? Today acupuncture is receiving wide acceptance as a respected, valid and effective form of health care. When most people think about acupuncture they are familiar with its use for pain control. However, acupuncture has a proven track record for treating a variety of circulatory, endocrine and systemic conditions. Acupuncture and modern medicine, when used together, have the potential to support, strengthen and nurture the body toward health and well-being.

Is acupuncture safe? Yes! Acupuncture has been used for well over 5000 years to help billions of people get well and stay healthy without drugs or surgery. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada have approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed acupuncture practitioners.

Are the acupuncture needles disposable? Acupuncturists follow strict safety guidelines and use only sterile, non-toxic needles labeled for single use only.

Do acupuncture needles hurt? Naturally many people associate needle pain with their past experience with hypodermic needles. You can fit up to 10 acupuncture needles inside the tip of one hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are tiny, thin and flexible, about the size of a cat’s whisker. Once the needles are inserted, some patients experience a mild ache or tingling, along with a mild sensation of fullness. There is generally an increased sense of relaxation. These are all quite normal and suggest the treatment is working.

How many treatments will I need? Each patient is different. The initial phase of the treatment plan is usually between 4-10 visits. The length of the treatment depends on how long the condition has been present and how quickly the patient responds to treatment. Generally if a condition is more acute patients respond more quickly than if it’s a chronic condition.

What education does an acupuncturist receive? Education and training programs range from 2-4 years, including internship. Course lengths vary depending is the student is studying to become proficient in only acupuncture or in all the modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Does my insurance cover acupuncture? Yes! Most of the major and minor insurance carriers in Canada allow for the treatment of acupuncture when provided by a licensed acupuncturist. Members of MARA receive the designation Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.). This accreditation is recognized by insurance carriers in order to register for direct billing of acupuncture treatments.