What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is a therapy method by which we stimulate, usually by needles, specific acupuncture points for the purpose of improving health.
Other than needles, the acupuncturist can also use for the same purpose: laser, heat (moxibustion, lamp), cupping, auriculomedicine, acupressure, electrical stimulation, guasha, etc.
What happens during an acupuncture treatment?
During the first session of acupuncture you will fill the forms in order to open your file , answer to several questions regarding your medical past history and other questions that allow the acupuncturist to establish an energetical diagnosis, followed by a treatment the same day. The basic acupuncture treatment consists in the insertion of thin needles in specific acupuncture points in order to improve the blood and energy flow and to re-establish the energetical balance of the body.
Are the treatments painful?
The insertion of the needle feels like a mosquito bite. Generally, once the needles are inserted the patient experiences a relaxation state.
How deep are the needles inserted?
The points of acupuncture are generally inserted at the surface of the body. The insertion of every single needle is done with precision upon specific indications of the depth and angle of insertion. In consequence the treatments ensure an effective and safe practice.
What other techniques can be used to stimulate acupuncture points?
An acupuncture treatment can also include other methods, such as:
- Moxibustion (implies the heating of the acupuncture points or needles by burning a herb called mugwort or the use of the electro moxibustion)
- Cupping (which are suction cups applied on the skin to relieve muscles soreness or pain)
- Plum blossom (which is a very small hammer used to relieve skin conditions or for other conditions)
- Electric stimulation or micro-currents (to continuously stimulate needles during the treatment)
- Laser (a non-painful stimulation of the acupuncture points by pulsated light)
- Tui Na (massage based on TCM therapeutical principles)
- Acupressure (manual technique of stimulation by pressure of the acupuncture points )
Can diseases be spread by the needles?
Since 2003 the Board of Acupuncturists of Quebec requires that all acupuncturists practicing in Québec use only sterile single-use needles. This sanitary measure eliminates the risk of sickness transmission.
For more information about this, please visit www.o-a-q.org
Are there any risks or side effects related to acupuncture treatments?
Though the risks or side effects of acupuncture treatments are minimal, sometimes the patients might experience: small bruises or mild discomfort at the needle insertion sites.
How many treatments are needed?
Your acupuncturist is the person qualified to establish a treatment plan prior to the first consultations.
It may vary depending on the severity, evolution, chronicity, and constitution of the patient.
Is acupuncture covered by the CNESST, SAAQ or RAMQ?
CNESST
The CNESST covers acupuncture treatments if the health issue was caused in the work environment. A medical evaluation and prescription will be needed to be admissible.
SAAQ
The SAAQ covers partially the acupuncture treatments fees and only if the health issues are related with a car accident. A medical evaluation and prescription are needed to be eligible. The patient could be asked to pay the difference of cost.
RAMQ
Acupuncture treatments are not covered by the RAMQ. However, more and more insurance companies are reimbursing a portion of the treatment costs.
For more information please visit the Board of Acupuncturists of Quebec's website: www.o-a-q.org or the Association of Acupuncturists of Quebec's website: www.acupuncture-quebec.com
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