Back & Body Health

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Acupuncture & TCM

Acupuncturist

Dr. Philippa Nunes - BASc, RAc, DTCMDr. Philippa Nunes

BASc, RAc, DTCM

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What is Acupuncture? And History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the practice of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body in order to activate healing, alleviate pain, and restore homeostasis. Acupuncture is an ancient medicine, originating in China some 3000 years ago. It is a holistic and safe form of healthcare that is recognized as an effective treatment for a wide variety of conditions. Whether you have an acute injury or are suffering from a longer-term health concern, acupuncture can offer help that works synergistically with any other healthcare modalities you are employing on your wellness journey.

How It Works

The body’s bioelectric energy, called “Qi,” ideally flows in an orderly fashion in well-organized pathways, referred to as channels or meridians. They lie underneath the skin at various depths depending on the specific channel. Each of the 12 regular channels is connected to specific tissues, glands, sense organs, and functions; both physiological and emotional. These are referred to as “organs.” When there is imbalance, or some manner of illness, injury, pain, or other emotional or physical symptom, this will reflect in the related channel as some kind of disruption in its electrical current.

By correcting and restoring proper qi flow in the channels, acupuncture can restore the body’s innate healing power, unblock healing to those injured areas, and bring the entire system back into balance.


Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect on my first appointment? How should I prepare?

During the initial visit, a full health history will be taken, and we discuss your symptoms, overall health, and lifestyle. Your tongue will be looked at and your pulse taken on both wrists. You will have ample opportunity to ask any questions you may have. You’ll then receive an acupuncture treatment, followed by recommendations for follow up care and what to do in the interim.

Before your first appointment, you’ll need to take 15 minutes to complete an acupuncture intake form. This can be done online from your booking confirmation email, or as a paper form at the clinic. Do not arrive hungry: you need some energy for the needles to work with. Do not brush your tongue on the day of your appointment. Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Avoid strenuous physical exertion for 3 hours after treatment. Bring shorts and a tank top, or a short-sleeved shirt to change into (women: it is helpful to wear a bra that clasps in the back for back treatments). Avoid wearing scents.

How many treatments will I need?

The number and frequency of treatments depend on the health issue, its severity, and the underlying constitution of the individual. Acute conditions can resolve quickly, with more frequent treatments over a short period of time. Chronic health concerns by nature take longer and respond better with less frequent treatments over a few months. Often some dietary changes are recommended, and other supportive measures. Chiropractic, physiotherapy, and/or massage may be helpful in conjunction with acupuncture in the case of musculoskeletal injury.

What can Acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can help with a variety of conditions including: headaches and migraines, arthritis, insomnia, stress/anxiety, depression, IBS and other digestion disorders, back, neck and joint pain, MVA related injuries, circulatory problems and many more.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is very safe. All needles are single use, and pre-sterilized. Acupuncture is a regulated and restricted activity. Registered acupuncturists go through extensive training and examination to acquire their license, and must meet the standards set by their governing body (the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta) on a yearly basis in order to maintain their license. It is important to fully disclose any health conditions to the Acupuncturist prior to treatment.

COVID-19 Update: Clinic Care as of April 5th

April 4, 2022 By BBH

As of April 5th, our clinic will be transitioning to optional masking for patients, practitioners and staff based upon our Association(s) Guidelines. If you would like your practitioner to wear a mask during treatment or have any concerns, please give us a call to make arrangements for your upcoming appointment and it will be noted on your file. If you are … Read More...

Download Acupuncture
Intake Form

Acupuncture & TCM Appointment Request Form

COVID-19 Update: Clinic Care as of April 5th

April 4, 2022 By BBH

As of April 5th, our clinic will be transitioning to optional masking for patients, practitioners and staff based upon our Association(s) Guidelines. If you would like your … Read More...

Health Tip

COVID-19 Update: Clinic…

As of April 5th, our clinic will be transitioning to optional masking for patients, practitioners and staff based upon our Association(s) Guidelines. If you would like your practitioner to wear a mask … Read More...

Health Tip

Health Tip: Sitting 8+…

Recent study suggests that the effects of sitting for 8 hours a day at work can be offset by 60 minutes of exercise. Take home message: it's crucial to get up and move as much as we can each day. (The … Read More...

Back & Body Health
  • Our Clinic
  • Our Team
  • Forms
  • News
  • Private Health Insurance
  • Student Health Plans
  • Recommended Products
Services
  • Active Release Techniques
  • Chiropractic Care
  • Hellerwork
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy
  • Massage Therapy
  • Myofascial Cupping
  • Physiotherapy / IMS Needling
  • Shockwave Therapy
Additional Services
  • Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy
  • Compression Stockings
  • Custom Orthotics
  • Exercise Rehabilitation
  • Nutrition
  • MVA Claims
  • Health Resources
Contact Info
  • Marda Loop / Altadore Location4018 16th Street SW, Calgary
  • Telephone Number403.209.2225
  • Fax Number403.245.9030 (fax)
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