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Acupuncture

The term "acupuncture" comes from the Latin words "acus" (needle) and "punctura" (penetration). Dating back approximately 2500 years in China, acupuncture stands as one of the oldest medical practices globally. At Integrated Health Clinic, we offer acupuncture both as a standalone treatment and as part of a comprehensive care plan addressing various physical, mental, and emotional concerns.

Despite its ancient origins, modern research supports acupuncture's effectiveness, earning it a respected place in complementary care. Though skeptics may question its workings, numerous scientific studies have demonstrated acupuncture's safety and ability to prompt the body to release endorphins, its natural pain-relievers. Additionally, acupuncture has been found to positively impact connective tissue like fascia and to reduce neurogenic inflammation contributing to pain. One of acupuncture's greatest strengths lies in its holistic approach to healing. Rather than merely alleviating symptoms, acupuncture targets the root cause of imbalances, promoting long-term wellness.

Over the years, thousands of controlled trials have investigated acupuncture's safety and efficacy for a range of conditions, including:

• Pain (osteoarthritis, low back pain, migraines, and fibromyalgia)

• Hormonal health (hot flashes and painful periods)

• Gastrointestinal health (constipation and IBS)

• Mental health (anxiety, depression, and insomnia)

During an acupuncture session, you will undergo a complete health assessment based on the four pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine: inspection, auscultation, inquiry, and palpation. Next, fine metal needles are precisely inserted into defined points on the body, typically using 5-20 needles per session. Each session lasts around 30-60 minutes, during which you'll relax with the needles in place for 10-15 minutes at a time. Sessions occur one to two times weekly, with the total number tailored to your specific needs. Because this treatment plan is individualized, points may be changed as the treatment progresses.

If you're curious about acupuncture’s benefits or interested in exploring integrative healthcare options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Integrated Health Clinic. Our team includes certified Naturopathic Physicians and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners, ensuring safe and effective treatments that may be covered by extended health benefits. To explore whether acupuncture is right for you, call 604-888-8325 and book your initial visit today.

In health,

Dr. Hillary Godin, ND

References

• Manheimer E, Linde K, Lao L et al. Meta-analysis: acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the knee. Ann Intern Med 2007;146:868-77.

• Qaseem A, Wilt TJ, McLean RM et al. Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med2017;166:514-30.

• Vickers AJ, Rees RW, Zollman CE, et al. Acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care: large, pragmatic, randomised trial. BMJ 2004; 328:744.

• Zhang XC, Chen H, Xu WT, et al. Acupuncture therapy for fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Pain Res 2019; 12:527.

• Cho SH, Whang WW. Acupuncture for vasomotor menopausal symptoms: a systematic review. Menopause 2009; 16:1065.

• Proctor ML, Smith CA, Farquhar CM, Stones RW. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and acupuncture for primary dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2002; :CD002123.

• Yang Y, Rao K, Zhan K, et al. Clinical evidence of acupuncture and moxibustion for irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1022145.

• Li M, Liu X, Ye X, Zhuang L. Efficacy of acupuncture for generalized anxiety disorder: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30076.

• Armour M, Smith CA, Wang LQ, et al. Acupuncture for Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2019; 8.

• Yin X, Gou M, Xu J, et al. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment on primary insomnia: a randomized controlled trial. Sleep Med 2017; 37:193.