Acupuncture
We are now offering Acupuncture at Kamloops Active Health.
Acupuncture works in many ways depending on the treatment goal and technique application. This ranges from western knowledge of the body to using traditional meridian theories that have been around for thousands of years. The goal is always to achieve the desired result with the lowest number of needles.
When acupuncture needles pierce the skin, it should not be a painful experience. Although many body sensations may arise, few of them have any lasting undesirable effect. It is helpful to remember that you are not adding or subtracting anything with acupuncture needles. The underlying goal is to regulate body systems. This principle is applied to both musculoskeletal pathologies as well as internal medicine pathologies.
Different techniques are used in aiding the desirable outcome. These include different types of needle stimulations and needle retention times, as well as other modalities including: Electrical Stimulation Acupuncture, Cupping, Gua Sha, Tui Na, Moxibustion, Electrical stimulation, TDP lamp (infrared heat) and Chinese diet Therapy.
CTCMA REGISTRATION # 101532
Cupping
Think of it as a reverse massage. The cups create suction, which stretches and mobilizes fascial layers. The cups can leave dark spots on the skin, which are caused by micro-tears in the superficial layers of the skin. This triggers the body to send white and red blood cells to the area to help promote healing which in turn builds healthier tissue. The marks created by the cups usually last approximately 7-10 days.
Gua SHa (gwahsha)
A practice using a massage tool to apply pressure and scrape the skin to relieve pain and tension. This action causes light bruising, which often appears as purple or red spots. It is not usually a painful experience, and the marks created usually dissipate over a few days.
Tui Na (twee-nah)
Which translates to “pushing and grasping” is a form of bodywork which is done by hand and is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Work is done along the meridians to help ease sore muscles, correct posture, improve circulation, and release blocked emotions.
Electrical Stimulation
Mild electrical currents are applied to acupuncture points or spots on the body where an acupuncture needle is inserted. Used to control pain and other symptoms on the skin. Various frequencies are used depending on the desired result.
TDP Lamp
A heating lamp that emits energy in the infrared spectrum to provide topical heating for the purpose of elevating tissue temperature. This can temporarily increase local blood circulation and can provide temporary relief of pain and stiffness associated with minor muscle and joint issues.
Chinese Diet Therapy
Using the traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis to add, subtract or modify foods in the diet to help promote homeostasis in the body.
Moxibustion
A type of heat therapy in which an herb (mugwort) is burned on or above the skin to warm and stimulate an acupuncture point or affected area.
More Information
Before Your Treatment
- Don’t come on an empty stomach
- Be hydrated
- Where loose clothing
After Your Treatment
- Lots of water
- Rest
- Have awareness in any sensations throughout the rest of the day. Pay attention to how long results last, and if anything changes.
Conditions Treatable by Acupuncture
See this article for more information: