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Acupuncture in Calgary

As a well-known Calgary acupuncture clinic, Integrative Health Centre can complete a variety of Chinese acupuncture treatments for a wide range of conditions. We offer acupuncture in Calgary alongside a range of Traditional Chinese Medicine services and naturopathic care. Contact us today to make an appointment for any of your acupuncture needs in Calgary.

What Is Chinese Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine art of healing that balances the vital energy Qi (chee) that is inside our bodies to restore health to various bodily systems. Chinese acupuncture involves inserting fine thread-like needles into specific points on the skin to help stimulate the re-balancing of Qi energy flow. This can help the body heal itself, modulate hormones and neurotransmitters, reduce pain, and improve immune system function. At Integrative Health Centre, members of our are highly experienced in delivering Calgary acupuncture treatments.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

When an acupuncture needle is inserted, it creates a pain-killing or analgesic effect. The body’s natural response to this effect is to release endorphins. These endorphins can be pointed to certain areas of the body, which can be highly effective in treating certain conditions. Since Chinese acupuncture treatments can also help to identify underlying causes of symptoms, it is also an effective diagnostic and preventative method for limiting progression of symptoms further. Generally, chronic conditions will need at least 10 Chinese acupuncture treatments to notice significant improvement. Acute conditions may notice a difference in symptoms after the first or second visit. At your initial appointment at our Calgary acupuncture clinic, we’ll discuss what you can expect from your treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the questions we often hear about Chinese acupuncture. If you have a question that is not listed, and we’ll provide you with more information about acupuncture in Calgary.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Chinese acupuncture uses very fine needles that are gently inserted in precise points. That means that patients rarely feel pain. Since pain receptors are located at the skin's surface, patients may feel a tiny prick as the needle is inserted. Once the needle has past the surface and has reached the underlying muscle, patients rarely feel any pain whatsoever. Sometimes, patients may feel some pressure and heaviness from the stimulation of Qi. Individuals who are afraid of needles may wish to try acupressure instead. We are happy to discuss these options at our Calgary acupuncture clinic.

What Conditions Does Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture can help treat both acute and chronic conditions. It will take longer to see results for chronic conditions but improvements usually happen over successive treatments. Every patient is unique in their symptoms, so each Calgary acupuncture treatment is customized to suit their concerns and body.

  • Addictions
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Blood Issues
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Depression / Anxiety / Stress
  • Fatigue
  • Frozen Shoulder & Shoulder Pain
  • Gynaecological & Menstrual Pain / Issues
  • Infertility / Fertility
  • Headaches (Migraine & Tension)
  • Lower Back Pain & Sciatica
  • Neck Pain
  • Neurological Issues / Paralysis
  • PTSD
  • Sciatica
  • Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
  • Sleep Issues
  • Stroke

Are the needles sterilized or one-time use? What are they made from?

Yes, all Chinese acupuncture needles are sterilized and one-time use only. They are typically stainless steel but can also be made from gold.

How deep do the needles go?

Needles are inserted at varying depths and angles depending on the location of the body and the desired treatment effect.

What should I expect when I come for an appointment?

Much like any other Calgary acupuncture clinic, your initial intake appointment at Integrative Health Centre will include a discussion with the doctor so they understand the imbalances you are feeling. After, the doctor will examine you, take your pulse and look at your tongue. The doctor will then administer the appropriate treatment they feel is most appropriate.

How many treatments would I need until I see results?

The number of acupuncture treatments needed is determined by the length of time the patient has had the illness or concern. Generally, chronic conditions need at least 10 to notice significant improvements. Acute conditions may notice a difference after the first or second appointment.

How will I feel after a treatment?

Many patients feel relaxed and slightly drowsy. In some cases, however, patients notice a burst of energy.

How do I prepare for a treatment?

Wear comfortable clothes and make sure you have eaten something before your visit. You may feel faint or dizzy after an acupuncture treatment on an empty stomach.