FAQ
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is typically needed. For acute conditions you can expect to have approximately 5 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. The number is of treatments needed is very subjective, and often depends on the person and their constitution. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being are also offered on an as needed basis.
Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A: When an acupuncture needle is inserted, there is a sensation called De Qi, which means Qi (energy) arriving at the needle. This is actually a sensation that is sought after, as it means we are hitting the right spot. De Qi presents as a feeling of heaviness, tingling, aching, and sometimes travels or spreads. Sometimes, there is also an electric sensation, but this is much more rare. An acupuncture needle insertion should not be sharp. If you are feeling a sharp sensation, or any sensation that makes you too uncomfortable, please tell the acupuncturist as the needle may need to be adjusted or removed all together.
Q: How long do the needles have to sit?
A: On the average adult, the needles are retained for approximately 20 minutes. This is how long it takes for the cycle of Qi to course through the body. This may change depending on the condition we are working with.
Q: Can kids receive acupuncture?
A: Yes! Kids can receive acupuncture and see benefits. The treatments may look different, as needle retention time is much less, or even, depending on the child, opted out of all together. Kids can often be scared of needles, so some different techniques can be applied instead. These techniques can include acupressure (pressing on acu points) and Gua Sha.
Q: Do you offer direct billing?
A: I currently offer direct billing for: Sunlife, Blue cross, Manulife, Canada Life, Beneva, Claim Secure, Desjardins, Equitable Life of Canada, iA Financial Group, Johnson, Johnson Group, IV Insurance, BPA, CCWU, Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan, Cinup, Coughlin, Cowan, DA Townley, First Canadian, GMS, Group Health, Group Source, Manion, Maximum Benefit, People Corporation, RWAM, Union Benefits, Green Shield Canada, SSQ Insurance, and Médic Construction (Green Shield Canada)