Following an in-depth medical history, physical examination, and diagnosis, points are selected based on anatomy and neurology. To enhance results, I sometimes manipulate the needles either using intramuscular stimulation (dry needling) or electrical acupuncture stimulation.

A variety of scientifically proven physiological changes occur in the body during an acupuncture treatment:

• Pain signals are inhibited

• Production of natural healing hormones occurs

• Inflammation is reduced

• Nerve function improves

• Blood flow is improved

• Immune system is improved

Neurofunctional Acupuncture: This type of acupuncture is synonymous with Contemporary Medical Acupuncture: This is a form of acupuncture that combines traditional Chinese acupuncture techniques with modern knowledge of neurophysiology and neuroanatomy to target specific neurological pathways and enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Specific points are selected on the body with the goal of stimulating the nervous system to promote healing. Neurofunctional acupuncture focuses on treating the root cause of pain and dysfunction by targeting both muscles and connective tissues, as well as specific areas of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Practitioners of neurofunctional acupuncture use a variety of techniques, such as electro-acupuncture and trigger point needling (dry needling / intramuscular stimulation / anatomical acupuncture), to provide targeted and effective treatment for a range of conditions, including chronic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and neurological disorders.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) Acupuncture, also known as Anatomical Acupuncture: An anatomy specific form of acupuncture which uses neurophysiology to identify and treat underlying nerve irritation(s) and muscle dysfunction(s). This is done by inserting the acupuncture needle into the affected area and very carefully and specifically manipulating it manually to treat the injured tissue. In essence, the needle becomes an extension of my hand to feel and treat the interior of the muscle tissue, which is a very effective way to treat trigger points, fascial adhesions, scar tissue, and muscles that aren’t working properly. This method is also sometimes referred to as “dry needling.” or “ashi needling,” or “local needling”, or and is extremely effective in treating both local medical conditions, as well as conditions rooted in the traditional Chinese meridian system.

Electroacupuncture (EA Stimulation): Electrical stimulation of the needles can be utilized to amplify the healing effect and improve nerve and muscle function. This is done by connecting the needles to a medical grade TENS unit, or specialized hand-held electroacupuncture unit , and gently stimulating the needles (and thus your body part being treated!) with a very specific frequency, depending on your injury.

Soft tissue therapy (including Active Release Technique, Graston, etc.), chiropractic care, cupping therapy and exercise rehabilitation are excellent additions to a medical acupuncture treatment, and can also be a part of your visit.

Following a medical history and in-depth conversation about your lifestyle and habits, points are selected based on the Chinese meridian system.

Chinese pulse diagnosis and tongue diagnosis are also used to help identify imbalances in your body’s meridian system, and any underlying conditions, which are key to effective treatment.

To enhance results, I sometimes suggest the addition of moxibustion, Eastern nutrition and lifestyle counselling. When indicated and appropriate for my patients, I also incorporate Chinese ear acupuncture (including NADA), Korean hand needling, and Japanese acupuncture techniques.

My speciality Chinese Medicine acupuncture certifications include: fertility acupuncture, abdominal acupuncture, and Meizen cosmetic acupuncture and facial rejuvenation acupuncture.

Chinese pulse diagnosis: Is one of my specialties. I assess where any imbalances, blocks, deficiencies, excesses, etc. are and resolve them using a system called acupuncture biofeedback. Using specific acupuncture points selected based on your individual pulse pattern (no 2 people are ever exactly the same!), my goal is to balance your heart’s rhythm as it presents in your meridian system, which then creates a free-flowing, healthful and balanced interior homeostasis in your body. This ancient Chinese approach is extremely powerful in helping to identify the root cause of your symptoms and/or condition, and in guiding treatment to properly resolve, rather than just treat surface symptoms - this ensures a lasting effect to treatment, rather than just a temporary quick fix.

Pregnancy Care and Fertility Acupuncture: I am specially trained in pregnancy care chiropractic as well as acupuncture. I offer both prenatal and postpartum acupuncture and chiropractic care to both new and experienced moms.

Treatment during pregnancy is different than traditional acupuncture and chiropractic care. Soft tissue treatments, acupuncture protocols, and adjustments / mobilizations are modified so they are extra gentle and safe, for both baby and mom.

My expertise in this field includes: fertility acupuncture, supporting medically assisted fertility (IUI, IVF, FET, improving uterine lining thickness / blood flow / egg quality), birth-prep / labour-prep acupuncture, pregnancy wellness care, miscarriage prevention, pregnancy loss / miscarriage recovery, low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy, round ligament pain, sciatica and SI joint pain, correcting breech or malpositioned babies (typically a combination of moxibustion / acupuncture / Webster type technique), back pain and postural issues related to breastfeeding, pregnancy personal training and post-natal rehabilitation, c-section recovery and rehabilitation, c-section scar tissue treatment.

Cosmetic Acupuncture: Also known as facial rejuvenation acupuncture, cosmetic acupuncture is best known for being “nature’s botox.” Cosmetic acupuncture can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, stimulate collagen growth, tighten skin, improve muscle tone, restore elasticity, improve your complexion, and restore your natural glow.

Moxibustion (Moxa): Is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort, also known as artemisia vulgaris, a special herb, over specific acupuncture points, to facilitate healing. Moxibustion has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years and its purpose is to stimulate healing, strengthen your body, stimulate the flow of blood and Qi, improve energy, promote digestive health, and maintain optimal general health. Other well-known uses of moxa include: encouraging a breech baby to turn, promoting fertility, and restoring your body’s “natural energy reserves.”

Soft tissue therapy (including Active Release Technique, Graston, etc.), Chinese tui na massage, cupping therapy, guasha therapy, and Eastern nutrition and lifestyle counselling are excellent additions to a TCM acupuncture treatment, and can also be a part of your visit.