What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture involvesthe insertion of sterile,single-use needles intospecific points on the body to stimulate healing. This technique helps release muscle tension, support the nervous system, and improvethe function of various organs.By encouraging balanceand energy flow throughout the body, acupuncture can support both physical and emotional well-being.

What is the theory behind acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy flowing throughpathwayscalledmeridians.WhenQiisblockedorunbalanced,symptomscandevelop. Acupuncture restores the flow by gently inserting thin needles at selected points, bringing harmony back to your body. Treatments may also include cupping, gua sha, massage, or moxibustion, tailored to your needs.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is generally painless. The needles used are of the highest quality and have a smooth point, making insertion gentle and straightforward. You might experience a brief pinch in areas where the muscles or tissues are tight, but this sensation typically fades quickly, leaving you with a sense of ease and relaxation.

Do you offer cupping?

Yes, our acupuncturist offers cupping therapy as part of your treatment when it’s appropriate. Cupping involves placing sanitized cups on the skin to release tension, improve circulation, and encourage healing. It’s a highly effective way to target specific areas of discomfort or muscle tightness.

Do you offer labor preparation acupuncture?

Yes. Acupuncture is often used in the final weeks of pregnancy to help prepare the body for labor by softening the cervix and encouraging the natural onset of labor. Research suggests that weekly treatments starting at 36 weeks may be the most effective in supporting a smoother birth process.

Acupuncture | Standing Cedars Integrative Health

Acupuncture

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, our vital energy or Qi (pronounced chi) flows throughout our bodies along energetic pathways called meridians. When blockages or imbalances occur within these meridians, symptoms of illness or disease develop. To free the blockages and reestablish balance, a select group of acupuncture points are chosen based on each individual’s personalized diagnosis. Micro-thin disposable needles are then painlessly inserted into these points, allowing the blockages to clear and harmony and balance to return. Treatments may also include cupping, gua sha, massage or moxibustion, depending on the patient’s needs or requests.

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ACUPUNCTURE

Micro-thin, single-use disposable needles are inserted into selected acupuncture points, allowing your body to heal and return to a state of balance. Treatments can benefit a variety of conditions, including stress, mental health, acute and chronic pain, hormonal health, digestive concerns, and more.

CUPPING

Sterile glass cups are placed over selected parts of the body, creating a suction resulting in an affect similar to a deep massage. Lactic acid is released in the muscles, blood circulation increases and sore tense muscles relax.

FACIAL REJUVENATION

A whole body treatment. This specialized acupuncture protocol encompasses the entire body, balancing out the hormones and internal organs to create harmony throughout. The treatment includes cosmetic needling,

constitutional body acupuncture and a light facial massage. A series of 8-10 treatments is oftern required. Contact us to Book.

GUA SHA

An ancient technique traditionally using a Jade tool that is rubbed over the soft tissue parts of the body, most commonly the upper back and shoulder region. The rubbing technique increases blood circulation in tight areas, releasing and opening up the meridians.

Cerviacal ripening, acupuncture for pregnancy, acupuncture induce labour

LABOUR PREP TREATMENT

For expecting parents, weekly treatments are recommended beginning at 36 weeks until birth. Treatments are focused on ripening the cervix and preparing the body for labour, as well as other pregnancy-related concerns such as edema, high blood pressure, or anxiety regarding the birthing process. All patients must be under the care of a doctor or midwife.

MOXIBUSTION

A dried form of the herb Mugwort is used as a warming affect similar to that of an infra red lamp. Deeply warming the body.

Acupuncture Rates

Initial Acupuncture Intake and Treatment | $135

75 min

Acupuncture Subsequent Appointment | $120

60-70 min

Facial Rejuvenation Initial and Subsequent Sessions | $135

PLEASE CONTACT SUZANNE TO BOOK 250-893-5621

60 min

Labour Prep. Initial Intake and Treatment | $120

60 min

Labour Prep Subsequent | $95

45 min

ICBC Initial Treatment | $135

60 min

ICBC Acupuncture Subsequent | $115

50 min

Forms of payment accepted are credit cards, Interac tap, cash, and cheque.

Direct billing is available with most insurance companies.

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CONDITIONS TREATED

DIGESTIVE

Abdominal pain
Bloating
Constipation
Diarrhea
IBS
Indigestion
Acid reflux

WOMEN'S HEALTH

Labour prep treatments
Infertility
PMS
Painful periods
Irregular periods
Menopause
Pregnancy

MUSCULOSKELETAL

Pain (including of the back,
neck and knees)
Numbness and tingling of the limbs
Headache
Stiffness
Arthritis
Muscle cramping
Carpal Tunnel
Tennis Elbow

GENERAL HEALTH

Asthma
Anxiety
Depression
Nervousness
Panic attacks
Insomnia
Allergies
Seasonal including sinusitis
Food
Dizziness and vertigo
Chronic fatigue and other energy issues
Blood pressure
Circulatory issues
Low immunity
Rashes and other skin conditions

Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. In British Columbia, Registered Acupuncturists are licensed through the College of Complementary Health Professionals of British Columbia (CCHPBC). This ensures they have completed extensive training in anatomy, safety protocols, and clean needle technique, including how to properly sanitize areas before needling and how to avoid sensitive or contraindicated points. As with any treatment, there may be minor side effects such as temporary bruising, lightheadedness, or slight soreness at the site of needling. These effects are typically mild and resolve quickly.

Acupuncture can support your well being in many ways, including: • Stress and anxiety • Headaches and migraines • Neck, shoulder, and back pain • Digestive concerns • Menstrual health and fertility support • Pregnancy and postpartum care • Sports related injuries • Sciatica and nerve pain • Emotional wellness, including anxiety and depression The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as beneficial for over 100 conditions.

While acupuncture, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS),and Dry Needling all involve the use of fine needles, the underlying philosophies and treatment approaches differ significantly. IMS and Dry Needling are typically performed by physiotherapists and focus on relieving muscular pain and dysfunction from a Western biomedical perspective. These methods target tight bands or trigger points within muscles to release tension and restore movement. Acupuncture, as practiced by Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncturists, takes a more holistic approach. It views the body through the lens of energy flow—known as Qi —and seeks to restore balance throughout the body. Pain is seen as a blockage of Qi, and treatment involves not only local points (including trigger points) but also distal points to help shift and resolve the root cause of the issue. Beyond pain management, acupuncture is designed to support the body in a wide range of health concerns and can address multiple conditions at once.

Yes. When performed by a registered and experienced practitioner, acupuncture is safe and supportive throughout all stages of pregnancy. Specific points are carefully avoided during early pregnancy, and every session is customized to ensure both the parent and baby are nurtured and protected. Our acupuncturist has received advanced training in perinatal care and works with pregnancy clients regularly.

Acupuncture can help ease common discomforts and promote a smoother pregnancy experience. It may be beneficial for: • Morning sickness and nausea • Fatigue and insomnia • Back pain and sciatica • Emotional support and anxiety • Breech presentation (ideally between 33–35 weeks) • Labor preparation and birth support

Yes, we offer gentle, age-appropriate treatments for children and teenagers. Acupuncture can help with: • Anxiety and stress • Sleep issues • Growing pains and physical discomfort • Focus and attention challenges For younger children receiving acupuncture, the needles are used in a very light, superficial manner—typically just tapped into the skin and not retained—making the experience gentle and comfortable. Our acupuncturist has specialized pediatric training to ensure the best care for younger clients.

Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a natural, non-invasive treatment designed to promote healthy, youthful skin while supporting overall wellness. Using fine needles, the treatment stimulates circulation, collagen production, and muscle tone in the face. While often referred to as “cosmetic acupuncture,” its benefits extend beyond aesthetics—it helps restore balance and vitality to the entire body. Facial acupuncture works holistically, using both facial and body points to promote skin health from the inside out. Please contact us before booking, as this treatment may not be suitable for everyone. General appointment information.