Frequently Asked Questions About TCM
What is TCM?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient medical system that takes a holistic
approach in maintaining the balance of the human body. TCM is a complete medical
system that has been practised for more than five thousand years.
The principle of TCM is that it looks at everyone as a whole, how the body is a small
universe with a set of sophisticated systems that interconnects with each other. That
these systems work in balance to maintain the healthy functions of the human body.
Unlike Western medicine which divides the physical and mental body into different
parts. Instead of just treating the symptoms, TCM looks at the root that is causing the
imbalance. It views every aspect of a person’s body, mind, spirit, and emotions as part
of one complete circle rather than loosely connected pieces to be treated individually.
What is the Tung Method of Acupuncture?
Tung(董) or Tong or even Dong, depending on the translation is a unique and ancient
Chinese acupuncture developed by Tung’s ancestors tracing back to the Han Dynasty.
The Tung’s school of traditional acupuncture is totally different from the traditional
school of acupuncture. It does not apply the five elements or zang-fu theory. Instead
it is treating the affected channels directly. With Tung’s special method of treatment, it
induces and accelerates a faster recovery of one’s energy in most conditions. Tung’s
system treats more on the extremities than the torso of the body. In
clinical conditions lesser needles are required.
Are TCM and acupuncture covered by MSP or Extended Health care?
Medical Services Plan of BC (MSP) funding for acupuncture treatment is available for
people receiving premium assistance (family income below $28,000). MSP pays for a
combined annual limit of 10 visits for acupuncture treatment, massage therapy,
physiotherapy, chiropractic, naturopathy and non-surgical podiatry. MSP covers
$23.00 per visit and for your convenience, we bills MSP directly. You are charged for
the balance of your treatment fees. Many private insurance companies such as
Sunlife, Great West Life, Manulife (extended health plans) cover 70%-100% of your
treatment costs up to $750 annually. Please check with your extended health plan
provider to see what limitations there may be.
If you have an extended health plan, please check to see what is covered
and what limitations there may be.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very different from hypodermic needles used for injections.
They are very fine and are usually barely felt when inserted. There are certain
sensations associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. These may include
slight cramping, heaviness, distension, tingling, or an electric sensation traveling
along a meridian. If any discomfort is experienced, it is usually mild.
How long do treatments take?
The first initial evaluation is usually an hour. Time spend may vary depending on the
complexity and nature of the condition. Subsequent acupuncture sessions are usually
½ hour in length. This too may vary based on the nature of the imbalance. It is usual
a very short “waiting” period to see the doctor, if any. We value our patient’s time and
scheduling needs.
How long will I need to be treated?
Because each patients health problems and response to treatment are unique, the
number and frequency of treatments will vary from 3 times per week, to every three
months. Typically the recommendation is 2-4 treatments per week for Relief Care
(usually 10-20 visits). Some patients respond favourably after only one or two
treatments. Some may not improve until the eighth or ninth visit. Other may require
two or three times per week for several months for maximum results. And sometimes,
despite the acupuncturist’s best effort and skill, the patient does not respond to
treatment. In general acute conditions require less treatment than chronic conditions.
Each acupuncture session build on the previous one, thus “building health.” The more
frequent you get treatment, the faster you will heal.
What type of response can I expect?
Each person responds differently. Your response can be immediate or delayed,
dramatic, or slow and subtle. The only way to tell is to watch for differences. With
pain conditions- look for any diminished effect regarding the intensity. With
functional disorders, such as constipation or allergies, the desired effect may take
more time.
Are acupuncture needles sterile and safe?
Yes. The government requires acupuncturists to follow very strict sterilization
procedures. In addition, pre-sterilized needles are manufactured, packaged, and
shipped in sterilized containers to ensure compliance with the law.
Can I get acupuncture while I am pregnant?
Absolutely. Acupuncture is a great drug-free way to provide relief from many of the
discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as: nausea, severe vomiting, fatigue,
anxiety, stress, insomnia, bleeding, heartburn, hemorrhoids, pain (back, joint, and
pelvic girdle pain), edema/swelling, sciatica, elevated blood pressure, urinary
incontinence, headaches/migraines, constipation, and itching. Acupuncture is an
excellent way to prepare the mother and baby for labour in overdue cases, and can
be used to correct breech position (up to 34 weeks). Acupuncture treatments are also
very beneficial after pregnancy, for postpartum issues such as fatigue, depression and
anxiety, vaginal discharge, and lactation issues (insufficient or excessive lactation,
engorged breasts).
What is Qi and what does it do?
Qi translates to mean energy, and though Qi is invisible, its presence becomes
especially apparent in the workings of the bodily organs and systems, which require
this energy to heal and regenerate. The Chinese view Qi not only as a powering
function, they see it as inseparable from function as there is no Qi without function,
and no function without Qi.
Qi is also known as “life force,” that which animates all living things. Since the total
absence of Qi is death, good health depends on a balanced distribution of Qi
throughout the meridian network. The meridian network influences the organs and all
bodily systems: skeletal, muscular, endocrine (hormones), circulatory, digestive,
respiratory, urinary, reproductive, and nervous. When Qi flows smoothly throughout
the meridians, each bodily system are united and interconnected. It is the Qi that
connect and unites all systems of the body, making us feel healthy and whole.
Available in English or Mandarin Chinese.
)
102-7731 Alderbridge Way,
Richmond
604-821-0888
)
888 Burrard Street,
2nd floor, Vancouver
604-682-3569
Clinic Locations
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Copyright 2009 Fynn Wu, R.Ac. © All Rights Reserved
888 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia
Telephone (604) 682-3569
7731 Alderbridge Way, Richmond, BC
Telephone (604) 821-0888
Acupuncture and TCM FAQs
