DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?

No, acupuncture should not hurt. A momentary prick is sometimes felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating a dull pressure or tingling around the area during the treatment. Most people are amazed by how relaxed they feel during and after the treatment. Many times I hear people say, “Did you just put a needle there? I didn’t even feel anything!”. While the needles ‘sit’, I allow people to rest and often times patients will fall asleep.

IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?

Absolutely, if practiced by a competent practitioner. As a Registered Acupuncturist, I am regulated by the College and Association of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAAA). www.acupuncturealberta.ca

The stainless steel needles are single use and disposed of immediately in an appropriate ‘sharps’ container.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT IN THE FIRST TREATMENT?

You can print the intake form from my website, fill it out and bring it in for your first visit. The first 45 minutes we will go over your intake form and discuss your main concern. All patient records and information is kept strictly confidential. I will then check your pulse and look at your tongue and determine the best course of treatment for you. It may include acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, massage, cupping, or moxabustion. If I need to access an area limited by clothing, you may be asked to remove that piece of clothing, but you will be properly draped by sheets. I will discuss with you my findings and the treatment plan recommended for you.

WHAT CONDITIONS ARE TREATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE?

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture to be a viable treatment for over 150 conditions, including, but not limited to:

Chronic pain

Headache/migraine

Fatigue/insomnia

Anxiety/depression

Digestive disorders

Fertility

Pregnancy discomforts/conditions

PMS/dysmenorrhea/irregular cycle

Menopausal symptoms

Addictions

Stress

WE HAVE HAD GREAT SUCCESS IN ALL OF THESE AREAS OF CONDITIONS.

DOES INSURANCE COVER ACUPUNCTURE?

Alberta Health does not cover acupuncture treatments. Most extended health care insurance plans will cover acupuncture, but you must check with your insurance company or your employer.

We do offer DIRECT BILLING for most insurance companies. Please call our office to set it up before your first appointment. 780-756-6505.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?

Cash, cheque, debit, Visa and MasterCard are the accepted forms of payment.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

This is unique to the individual. For most chronic conditions, 5-7 treatments on a weekly basis tends to offer the best outcome. Some people notice an immediate improvement in their health while for others acupuncture has a cumulative effect over several visits.

DOES THIS CLINIC OFFER CHINESE HERBS? IF SO, WHAT KIND?

Yes, we have access to an extensive herbal pharmacy located here in Edmonton. While patent formulas are commonly used, patient specific formulas may be created to suit the conditions of the individual. They can be left as powder granules to make into tea or put into capsules.

WHAT SETS OUR CLINIC APART FROM OTHER CHINESE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS?

• We love what we do and are devoted to giving you top quality care.
• We offer FREE 15 minute consultations, over the phone or in the clinic, to make sure acupuncture is right for you and your condition.
• A comprehensive diagnosis is clearly communicated to you.
• We take our time with you. 1.5 hour for the first treatment and 1 full hour for follow-up treatments.
• We educate you about what’s wrong, why, and how you can heal according to Chinese medical principles.
• When you get acupuncture treatments, at no extra charge, we offer nutritional counseling, herbal consulting, cupping, moxabustion, and shiatsu as needed.
• As a multiple disciplinary clinic, we offer western massage and chiropractic.
• Your treatment is personally tailored to suit your individual needs. At Acupuncture Naturally, your treatment specifically reflects your unique individual dynamics.
• Evening appointments are available.
• We have a sliding scale for students, seniors and people on disability.