According to a 2016 survey conducted by the Canadian Community Health Survey, 1.4% of Canadians reported using acupuncture as a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). In Calgary specifically, there are over 200 licensed acupuncturists, indicating a growing interest in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in the area.

Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2013 found that acupuncture was associated with significant improvements in pain and quality of life in patients with chronic pain conditions. This highlights the potential benefits of acupuncture for individuals seeking alternative treatment options for pain management.

Overall, while acupuncture may not be as widely used as other forms of CAM in Calgary and Canada, it is a growing field with potential benefits for individuals seeking alternative healthcare options.

What is this Alternative Chinese Medicine?

Acupuncture is a type of alternative medicine that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. It involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Acupuncture is one of the key components of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is a holistic approach to healthcare that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, dietary therapy, moxibustion, and other modalities. In this blog, we will explore the connection between acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, and why you should visit our practitioners at Vitality Chiropractic & Counselling for the best acupuncture services in Calgary.

Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive system of healthcare that has been practiced in China for thousands of years. According to TCM, the human body is a complex system of energy channels, or meridians, through which vital energy, or Qi, flows. When Qi is blocked or disrupted, illness and disease can occur.

TCM practitioners use a variety of techniques to restore the balance of Qi and promote health and wellness. In addition to acupuncture, TCM includes herbal medicine, dietary therapy, massage, and other modalities. The goal of TCM is to treat the root cause of the problem, rather than just the symptoms, and to promote overall health and wellbeing.

The Connection Between Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is one of the key components of Traditional Chinese Medicine. According to TCM, acupuncture works by stimulating the flow of Qi through the energy channels in the body. The acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points along the meridians to unblock any obstructions and restore the natural flow of energy.

In addition to promoting energy flow, acupuncture also has a number of other benefits. It can help reduce pain, promote relaxation, and improve overall health and wellbeing. Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with other TCM therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to healthcare.