Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles of Qi (pronounced chee) energy flow through meridians or pathways of the body. When the balance of Qi is disrupted, injury and illness can occur.
Acupuncture aims to treat both the symptoms and the root causes of the injury. Physiotherapists often use acupuncture to alleviate acute pain that cannot be treated with manual (hands-on) techniques.
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into specific anatomical points (acupuncture points) on the body. This encourages healing, pain relief, increased energy, and improved body function. Needles are usually left in place for 10-30 minutes, and can be manipulated by your physiotherapist in order to increase or decrease the flow of Qi.
In BC, all physiotherapists treating with acupuncture are educated and examined by the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute. Furthermore, physiotherapists must submit proof of their educational qualifications to the College of Physical Therapists of BC.
