How does acupuncture work?
Basically, acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote its
own healing. The ideal is to balance one's overall energy, in order to establish or re-establish well-being. Research has shown that the body
responds by releasing endorphins (neurotransmitters that stop pain), increasing blood cell counts, and heightening the immune system.
What does acupuncture feel like?
Patients find that the treatments are relaxing and usually involve little
or no discomfort. Occasionally one may feel a slight pinch that quickly diminishes.
What can I expect during an average visit?
TCM's strength is in working with the whole person. After a
thorough review of personal and familial health history, time is spent on learning about the person's background, lifestyle and habits as these
pertain to overall health. This information, in conjunction with pulses and tongue conditions and physical signs and symptoms, provides the basis
for a TCM diagnosis and treatment plan. Patients usually start off with once-a-week treatments, which are tapered in frequency as their condition
improves. Some conditions such as acute pain require frequent treatments. Chronic conditions may need long-term treatments. Generally, acupuncture
has a cumulative effect, with treatments building upon each other. Patients are encouraged to actively participate in their own healing process
through dietary recommendations, stress reduction techniques and medical Qi Gong.
Can I benefit from acupuncture if I'm relatively healthy?
Acupuncture patients range in age from children to
seniors. Some seek treatment as an alternative to or as an enhancement of Western medicine, while others seek treatment for a chronic condition.
TCM is not only used for treating ailments as they arise, but also in preventing disease. Many individuals find acupuncture and herbal medicine
great ways to maintain healthy and balanced lives. Seasonal "tune-ups" and acupuncture for stress reduction are highly recommended.
How can acupuncture help me?
Acupuncture is used worldwide both as a primary and complementary form of medical
treatment. The list of conditions that acupuncture may help is essentially endless. The healing effects of acupuncture come in large part from the
way that the body and mind are viewed and treated in Chinese medicine. While there are basic treatment protocols for many conditions, every treatment
is tailored to your specific set of signs and symptoms. Treating you as an individual with a unique set of signs and symptoms, rather than a person
with a specific condition, is the advantage that acupuncture offers.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends greatly on what type of condition you have. Most people will begin
to see results from acupuncture in approximately 4-10 treatments. Treatments are generally administered once per week until your issues improve and
then follow-up appointments may range from a few times per year to monthly to bi-weekly. Most people find acupuncture treatments extremely relaxing
and effective and may decide to come in for treatments after their initial conditions improve. Acupuncture is an important aspect of an overall health
improvement and disease prevention program.
Does acupuncture hurt? What are the needles like?
Acupuncture needles are sterile, single use and very thin. People
are surprised to see how thin acupuncture needles are and any hesitation about the treatment disappears after the first needle is inserted. Nothing more
than a mild pinch is felt upon insertion of the needles. After the needles are inserted most patients feel relaxed and comfortable and often fall asleep
until their treatment is finished.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most extended medical plans and WCB, ICBC claims. If you have a car accident
or job-related injury, you just get an acupuncture prescription from your family doctor.
The News information on this site will be updated soon...
There is a growing body of evidence supporting the idea that acupuncture offers solid benefits for a range of conditions. Here is but a few articles that explain the benefits of acupuncture for specific illnesses.
"I came to see Dr. Yu in relation to chronic fatigue. I was tired all the time, had little focus at work, and felt completely drained. I saw several doctors who didn't have
any answers for my problem and when I almost gave up I read an article about the benefits of acupuncture. Somewhat reluctant, I went to see Dr. Yu, at the recommendation of
a family friend. I am very happy I did. After about 10 acupuncture sessions I started to feel better, and within two months I regained my energy and focus. I liked Dr. Yu for his
caring manner, patience and honest approach. I recommended him to my family and friends without hesitation."
Jasmine L. - March, 2009
"I had a car accident 6 months ago, and was left with severe neck pain, radiating up the head, and down the shoulder. I was on strong painkillers that certainly helped with the pain,
but didn't help with the root cause. I did physiotherapy and that alleviated the pain to some extent, however, it wasn't until I saw dr. Yu that my pain went away completely. He used electro-acupuncture,
cupping, and tuina, which is a kind of massage, in order to disperse the stagnation that was contributing to the pain. After the first 4 sessions I was able to cut down on the painkillers, and 1 month
later I felt almost completely recovered. During the first month I saw dr. Yu twice weekly, and afterwards once every week for two more months. I am happy to say that I have no residual pain and that I
haven't taken any painkillers in the last couple of months. Thank you, dr. Yu!"
Daniel T. - May, 2008
"A dermatologist had been treating me for alopecia using cortisone for 1 year without success. I came to see Dr. Yu for shoulder pain and mentioned
the bald spot on my head to him; Dr. Yu said he could treat my hair loss. He began acupuncture treatments 2 times a week, it was not painful. Dr. Yu did
everything he could to make me feel comfortable while having the treatments. Within a month, I noticed my hair was growing back. Both Dr. Yu and I were so
excited because my hair was growing back faster than he expected. After only 2 months treatment my hair growth had been restored."
Catalina S. - March 17, 2007