Frequently
Asked
Questions
& Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient healthcare system originated in China thousands of years ago. The foundations of Acupuncture are rooted in the concept of a Vital Energy or Qi flowing within our bodies.Qi flows following pathways, or meridians, each meridian represents a particular organ system. There are also extraordinary meridians. When the body experiences an imbalance or a deficiency of Qi, it often is expressed like symptoms, diseases or pain.
Does acupuncture use herbs?
Not every Acupuncture treatment requires the use of herbs. There are, however, certain conditions that respond particularly well to a combination of Acupuncture and Herbal supplementation.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
When properly performed by a registered experienced practitioner, acupuncture is a safe treatment option during pregnancy, and many women find that acupuncture can address a number of physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that take place during this time.
What is the origin of herbal medicine?
The healing properties of plants and herbs have been used for centuries by countless civilizations and cultures. Records show that Indigenous cultures religiously used plants and herbal preparations in their ceremonies and treatment of the ill.
What is Qi (Ki)?
The concept of Qi (pronounced chee) or Ki lies at the very core of TCM and Acupuncture. The Qi within our bodies acts to protect us against disease, illness and pain. Qi flows in an organized manner along pathways known as meridians.
Useful Links
Health Insurance BC administers the Medical Services Plan on behalf of the Ministry of Health and can answer your questions about medical coverage. For contact information, visit the resident, administrator or practitioner section links above.
The Benefits of Acupuncture and TCM.
CTCMA (College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia)
The ATCMA supports and represents TCM and Acupuncture practitioners, guides patients, and promotes education to foster healthy communities and a vibrant profession.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has formed a unique system to diagnose and cure illness. The TCM approach is fundamentally different from that of Western medicine. In TCM, the understanding of the human body is based on the holistic understanding of the universe as described in Daoism, and the treatment of illness is based primarily on the diagnosis and differentiation of syndromes.
People use acupuncture to relieve pain and treat certain health conditions. You can use it by itself or as part of a treatment program. Studies have found promising results for the use of acupuncture to treat nausea and vomiting related to pregnancy, chemotherapy, and post-surgery pain.