FAQ
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You can start by asking yourself where does it hurt or what is concerning you. Our practitioners can recommend you to the appropriate treatment to get you started and guide you on your way to better health.
You can also contact us at any time by email or phone to have all your questions answered to find out what will best suit your needs.
It’s always advised to check with your insurance provider to find out if our services are covered. You can do so by calling or ask us to check for you. Most insurance policies offer a limited dollar amount or percentage of the cost and cover specific services.
At the end of every visit, we will provide you with insurance information that can be submitted to your insurance company for claims and reimbursement. If you are missing any paid invoices, please contact us.
If you can make it into the clinic, then yes! Feeling unwell or coming down with a cold are great reasons to come in and get treated. Treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms and/or stop it from progressing. However, if you are vomiting or have a high fever, we understand and recommend you to rest and drink lots of water.
Please note our 24-hour cancellation policy.
The simple answer is, yes! While every case is different, most patients report various degrees of improvement and benefits after receiving acupuncture treatment deemed
appropriate for their condition.
The best success depends on many factors such as the general health of the patient, type of illness, severity and duration of the illness, and the past management of the
condition. One of the biggest strengths of acupuncture is that we treat people individually to reach specific outcomes.
Most people would say it’s relaxing and that you don’t feel the needles at all and others may tell you something different. Acupuncture typically does not hurt, however, acupuncture can feel different to different people.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and are even described as being not much thicker than a strand of human hair! There can be a pricking sensation when the needle is inserted and may contact a small nerve, however, this is very transient and generally painless. Depending on what is being treated and the needle technique involved, you may feel a mild ache, numbness, or an “alive” sensation, normally while the acupuncturist is “manipulating” needles which involves twisting or tapping the needles for a few seconds. This is a sign that the acupuncture is doing its job to stimulate the flow of qi and circulation; and are not unpleasant.
With this said, our patients comes first and the practitioner will always ensure to respect their comfort level at all times. If you still are apprehensive about needles, Tuina massage, cupping, or moxibustion may be a good option for you.
Each treatment can range from 30-minutes to 90-minutes depending on severity, longevity, and need. The First Visit normally takes a little longer so that our practitioners can thoroughly understand the patient’s current state of health and determine the next step. The amount of treatments will be discussed with the practitioner and are often weekly or biweekly based on the case.
Although it can happen, it is not common to bleed when needles are removed. Occasionally, there may be a drop of blood due to tiny vessels just under the skin surface but is stopped quickly with light pressure and a cotton ball. Any bleeding does not come with any risks.
If you are subject to hemophilia, thin-blood, or are a heavy bleeder, please communicate this with the practitioner so that we may best serve you.
It is generally not an issue for patient’s who are on blood thinners to receive treatments. The idea of getting acupuncture to increase circulation, ease soft-tissue tension (including the blood vessels), is something that can be especially valuable for people with cardiac and/or vascular difficulties.
We treat patients on a case-by-case basis, please kindly let our practitioner know ahead of time if you are taking any prescription medications and blood thinners.
This depends on what you want to be addressed, how long it’s been present, and your general state of health. Typically, short-term (acute) problems will respond within just a few treatments, while longer-term (chronic) problems may take up to twelve or more treatments before consistent sustainable changes occur.
Likely not, but this also depends on the reason(s) of your treatments in the first place. Many people choose to continue treatments after resolving their chief complaint(s). The preventative and quality of life enhancing abilities of acupuncture enables our clients to achieve optimal well-being. This can be done on different frequencies like monthly or bi-monthly.
Usually, yes. As a rule of thumb, acupuncture is extraordinarily forgiving.
In our experience, “therapy” is usually taking medication, receiving physical therapy, massage therapy, or chiropractic therapy. In these cases, acupuncture can work well together. In fact, the benefits of acupuncture treatments are often seen clearly through the experience of other therapies, which amplify the healing potential through a synergistic effect.
Although it is true, especially when performed well, acupuncture solely for pain relief is a common misconception. The benefits can cause both structural and functional changes in our bodies.
For example, in the treatment of back pain, acupuncture needles are inserted into problematic areas and will relax the muscles. As the muscle relaxes, there will be a subtle change in the spinal vertebrae since the muscle is no longer pulling it out of alignment. As the spine moves, another area in the back may tighten up and this is treated accordingly. Thus, it is possible to unravel a ‘holding pattern’ that will have formed due to a combination of poor posture, stress, injuries, etc.
Acupuncture is very safe and non-invasive when it is performed by qualified Registered Acupuncturist. Our acupuncturists, who have thousands of hours in clinical experience, know to avoid dangerous areas on the body that can potentially put the patient’s well-being at risk and respect the patient’s comfort level and tolerance.
Cupping should not be a painful process and generally does not induce pain unless there are underlying health issues. The pressure of the cup can be adjusted to accommodate to the threshold of the patient. Like massage, patients normally feel a sense of relaxation.
If there are any concerns in sensitivity, please communicate this with your practitioner.
The marks are a result of the suction of the cups and fade away after 3-7 days. They are often compared to large hickies and can seem bruise-like, but they don’t hurt. The quality of marks tells us different things about the state of the patient’s health (some marks are darker than others which may indicate poor circulation).
Cupping therapy can be very effective for people with muscle tension, body pain, and circulation issues. Sometimes cupping is used with other treatments (like acupuncture) for better results.
People with a weak constitution, low blood pressure, thrombosis, or varicose veins should consult the practitioner before starting treatment.
The main difference between conventional medicine and alternative medicine is the approach. The same way Naturopathy looks to treat symptoms and problems from the root cause or towards prevention of furthering issues, Herbal Medicine looks to work with our body’s natural constitution. Treatment is individualized to meet specific needs.
Yes, if used properly. Modern medicines are commonly derived from herbs and are still used today to treat many acute problems without us even knowing. We use herbs on a daily basis and neglect its powerful uses.
As treatment plans vary, some patients experience immediate changes, others may take a while depending on how deep rooted the issue is. Some patients even choose to continue Herbal Therapy for its preventative use and general health benefits.
Herbal Therapy is an affordable solution and alternative to other medicines. They key benefit is that it is portable and can provide treatment outside of the clinic.
Prior to treatment, please inform your practitioner and disclose all potential allergies and intolerances so that we may better service your needs.
We always ask that our patients check with their insurance providers to have a clear understanding of what they are covered under. Herbal medicine is less common in terms of coverage. Some coverage may cover “Chinese Medicine”, “Alternative Medicine” or blanket coverage, in those cases there is a good chance that herbal medicine is covered under those categories.
No pain, no gain as they say! Depending on what kind of massage therapy you’re looking for or recommended to you, you can feel some pressure on your body. This is not unexpected but do not hesitate to communicate any discomfort to your practitioner and to release pressure or to be more gentle.
We understand if you’re tight on time. It’s generally okay to, for example, have acupuncture and massage on the same day. Sometimes it’s recommended and can promote relaxation and healing effects.
Moxibustion is normally recommended for people who are experiencing “cold” symptoms with an imbalance in Yang. Some symptoms include cold sweat, allergies, and menstrual pain.
There are many uses for Moxa but there are some instances where it should be avoided. Please consult with you practitioner before getting treatment.
The fragrance omitted is the burning of mugwort when being used in treatment. Many people love it and find it relaxing and cleansing while others may not favour it. It’s scent is very earthy, deep, and warm. Don’t worry, it doesn’t stain clothes!
Many people will feel immediate results during or after their treatment. Like other practices, it is a case-by-case treatment and vary for different people and their conditions.
Naturopathic Doctors (N.D.s) focus on identifying and treating the root cause of symptoms, rather than suppressing, to restore the natural health of the body. N.D’s are able to prescribe non-medical solutions, provide different methods of aid, and implement simple lifestyle changes to help their patients including education in preventative care.
Naturopathic Medicine differs in the philosophy and strategy of treatment customized to the individual and normally spend more time with patients in comparison to the average Medical Doctor to really understand and treat what needs to be addressed
Definitely! The great thing about paying for your health care is that you have control. You get more time, have all your questions answered, and a treatment plan personalized to you when meeting with a Naturopathic Doctor.
Effective treatment can save more time, money, and energy down the road.
Most extended healthcare plans offer coverage for Naturopathy. Please check with your insurance provider and request coverage it if is not provided. After each visit you will be provided with an invoice to submit for claims
Everyone can benefit! Naturopathy focuses on treating people of all genders, ages, sizes, and backgrounds, not only diseases.
Naturopathic Medicine can be used to treat both acute conditions (ie. colds and flu, fever, minor injuries, and migraines) and chronic conditions (ie. fatigue, endocrine imbalances, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, neurological disorders, and mood disorders). It is also a great support to optimize health through life transitions (such as weight loss, puberty, menopause, pregnancy, and aging) or adjunctive care to support conventional medical treatments.
Many people seek out Naturopathic Doctors because they want to support their wellness goals, are looking for an alternative or complementary solution, or simply because they would like to learn more about their health.
Normally, a First Visit can take up to 90-minutes and will consist of an in-depth intake on your health history, screening physical exam, and discussion on your health concerns and goals. At the end of this visit, we will have clear priorities, goals, and you will leave with some preliminary treatment recommendations to follow until the next visit.
Of course. We believe that working together is the best way to support patients to ensure that you receive the best possible care. It is common for a Naturopathic Doctor to request lab work and other documents to best treat their patients.
Please provide the contact information for your other healthcare providers to your first appointment and copies of any recent lab work if possible.
Naturopathic Medical training includes education in pharmacology and interactions of pharmaceutical medications with herbs, vitamins, foods, and managing side effects of medications. Please provide a list of current medications and supplements to your appointment so we can take them into account in your treatment plan.
Yes, we can! Naturopathic Doctors can order lab work, interpret the results, and use this information to create an appropriate treatment plan. Lab work ordered by a Naturopathic Doctor is not covered by OHIP.
If you have copies of any recent lab work from another health care provider, please bring a copy to your appointment if possible or provide us with their information so that we can contact on your behalf.
Osteopathic manipulations are similar to chiropractic manipulations but work with the entire musculoskeletal system whereas chiropractors generally focus only on the spine and joints.
Physiotherapy, while having some similarities, use different methods and are best for rehabilitation treatments and for those who have long-term illnesses. A Physiotherapist will generally monitor improvement of specific muscle groups, using exercise programs, and are 60% hands-on.
Osteopathy, overall, is about 90% hands-on using palpation and manipulation to treat the body as a whole by loosening and releasing the connective tissues around the muscles. It is common for Osteopaths and Physiotherapists to work together with a patient to monitor progress and improve turnaround.
Osteopathy is covered by many extended healthcare insurance providers. We always advise you to check with your companies to ensure your treatments are covered.
Comfortable, flexible, and non-restrictive clothing are preferred as some therapeutic manipulation may require the patient to perform full range of motion (ie. Shorts, flexible pants or leggings, t-shirts).
The patient usually will not be asked to remove any article of clothing unless the practitioner needs to access specific areas of the trunk and pelvic area.
Yes! Most of the time, our treatments and services can be done in conjunction to maximize the efficiency of the treatment process(ie. Acupuncture or Herbal Medicine) as well as other treatments (ie. Physiotherapy).
If the patient is taking medication, please inform the practitioner prior to the treatment. The practitioner may have to adjust the manipulation to accommodate the patient’s conditions.