Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a safe and effective form of health care that is used to relieve pain, improve function of body systems and encourage cell renewal for optimal health and beauty. Your acupuncturist is trained to use special diagnostic methods of tongue, pulse and other observations, including a thorough medical history taking to determine what acupoints are needed to treat your condition and can also advise you on the best lifestyle and dietary considerations for your condition and constitution. Very fine, sterile disposable needles are gently inserted into the skin. Most people feel no pain or discomfort. Other therapies such as tui na massage, gua sha , cupping, moxa or electro acupuncture may be used in your treatment. Your first appointment will last 60 to 90 minutes, while other sessions are usually 45 minutes to one hour.

What Will it Feel Like?

The needles used in acupuncture treatment are very fine and while some people feel a slight sensation when the needle is inserted, many people feel no discomfort at all. In fact, many people fall asleep while the needles are in place because acupuncture is naturally relaxing, due to the fact that it stimulates the body's production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters like Dopamine and Serotonin, the "feel good' chemicals in our bodies. Also, acupuncture is very safe and has virtually no side effects so even the aged and children can enjoy the benefits

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Acupuncture is used to treat many kinds of conditions including overuse of muscles and tendons, hormonal imbalances, fertility problems, digestive disorders, skin conditions, colds and flu, addictions to drugs, cigarettes or alcohol, high blood pressure and more. Your acupuncturist will consult with you and a treatment plan will be developed for your specific disorder and symptoms. Many people begin to feel better right away and some need only a couple of treatments to see results! Initially, treatments are usually recommended once or twice a week and then can taper off until the condition is relieved.

Does It Work?

Acupuncture is a complete, holistic healing system developed in China over thousands of years. Not only has acupuncture stood the test of time but is increasingly recognized by modern science for documented results from clinical trials held world wide. The World Health Organization (W.H.O.) is just one of the many international organizations which recognize the effectiveness of acupuncture for a list of over one hundred conditions. Improved biochemical balance achieved by endorphin stimulation promotes the body's natural healing abilities, reducing inflammation and promoting physical and emotional well being. Acupuncture's effectiveness is therefore scientifically proven, becoming a well trusted medical alternative to many.

What Does It Cost?

Acupuncture treatments compare in price to chiropractic and physiotherapy and a referral is not required. Most extended health care benefits cover acupuncture in B.C. with the registration number of your acupuncturist.

Rebekah Demirel R.Ac., R.P.C., L.Ac. has a wide range of experience in the healing arts, including fourteen years as an ambulance paramedic and over twenty years as a paramedic trainer. She is a clinical counselor specializing in post-traumatic stress and a classically trained acupuncturist and East Asian medicine practitioner. Rebekah developed Taming the Dragon, presenting it to social service agencies and other groups. She is a childhood survivor of the streets and the foster care system and a long-time advocate for women’s health and empowerment.