What is Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is acknowledged by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the most widespread form of traditional and complementary medicine in the world. It is one part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine system (TCM), a system that understands a person’s health via concepts such as Qi (vital force) and how it interacts with Blood, Body Fluids and Organs. Also, how the transformations (imbalance) of Yin and Yang brings about symptoms. In its thousands of years of history, TCM has cataloged such symptoms and developed many different ways to act on the body to bring back balance and foster health. Book an appointment at Vitality Clinic in NW Calgary to see how Acupuncture can help you today!

Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Acupuncture affects change by inserting and manipulating needles on acupoints that lay on meridians (channels or vessels) thus influencing the flow of Qi on the body.
Moxibustion

Moxibustion

Moxibustion consists in applying heat on some acupoints – usually by burning mugwort (or similar herbal mixtures) near them – with the principal intent of boosting the Yang energy of specific Organs.
Scalp Acupuncture

Scalp Acupuncture

Scalp Acupuncture focus on a smaller number of meridians coursing on the scalp, and studies are showing effectiveness for both acute and chronic central nervous system disorders.
Auricular acupuncture

Auricular Acupuncture

Auricular Acupuncture usually is done by taping small seeds or tiny needles in specific points around the ear. These points are seen as an image – a reflex – of the body, and the seeds should stay in place for a few days. Current research has seen effectiveness for pain and anxiety management.
Guasha

Guasha

Guasha is a manual therapy involving pressure and repeated unidirectional strokes, mainly along a muscle, until the area starts to redden or spot. By using scraping tools made with different material – stone, jade, porcelain, buffalo horn – the surface of the body is stimulated to treat and prevent different conditions. Guasha is used to promote metabolism, detoxify, regulate the immune functions, treat injured soft tissues, painful diseases, nervous, muscular, joint and vascular issues.

What to Expect on Your First Appointment

On your first Acupuncture appointment at Vitality clinic in NW Calgary, the acupuncturist will review the intake form, ask new relevant questions and do a complementary physical examination. This examination includes observation of your tongue, palpation and analysis of your pulse in a TCM perspective, and sometimes palpation of the abdomen, shoulders, back or another area where the patient is experiencing pain.

With all this information, the acupuncturist will make a TCM diagnosis of the problem and build a treatment plan that can include acupuncture, other TCM modalities, and also specific recommendations about diet and Qi Gong exercises.

Preparing for your First Appointment

 Before you come to your appointment, you will receive an intake form asking you about your past and current medical history, your eating, drinking and sleeping habits, your lifestyle, pain being experienced, menses cycle, and other questions related to your health. This information is an important part of the assessment process and will be used by your acupuncturist to make a TCM diagnosis and a treatment plan for your condition.

 Bring loose fitting clothing and shorts so you can easily receive treatment in some acupoints above knee level, abdomen, chest or back if needed.

Don’t come on an empty stomach or have a heavy meal prior to your appointment.

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Embrace Balance with TCM & Acupuncture

Ancient wisdom for modern well-being.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture are time-honored practices that have been nurturing health and harmony for thousands of years. These practices offer a holistic approach to care, focusing on balancing the body's natural energy. By addressing the root causes of discomfort and illness, rather than just symptoms, TCM and Acupuncture can help alleviate chronic pain, improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Discover how these ancient techniques can support your journey to health and balance.

DIRECT BILLING AVAILABLE FOR MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES. Discover how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) & Acupuncture can help balance you body and mind by utilizing its many techniques (Acupuncture, Gua-Sha, Fire Cupping, Moxibustion, Chinese Herbs, Qi-Gong Exercises).

Dr. Cristiane de la Hoz

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Discover Balance with TCM & Acupuncture

Begin your journey to wellness. Schedule your appointment today.

BOOK NOW