Acupuncture is well known in Chinese culture to take care of a variety of ailments and illnesses. From everyday aches and pains to life-long diseases and conditions, acupuncture treatments are able to support and enhance the body’s natural healing systems to work towards a more balanced and symptom-free life. While acupuncture was mainly used in Asia, the increasing multiculturalism of Canadian cities and growth of immigration in Richmond, BC, has made acupuncture an increasingly accessible treatment in this city.
Western Medicine vs Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture; What are the Differences?
Western medicine has developed over the years to include remedies for very specific diseases and symptoms. For example, there are a variety of different over the counter medications specifically for sore throats, runny noses, fever, and headaches, all which are symptoms of the flu. Each medication is used to target and reduce the specific symptom that is bothering you, and help you feel better so that you have the focus and energy to get back to your daily activities and responsibilities quicker.
In comparison, Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) is holistic, meaning that it looks at not only the symptoms, but the root of the cause through the lens of the entire system. For example, the flu may have originated from a weakened immune system due to stress, so a TCM treatment can relieve some flu symptoms, and also target the nervous system, which can lower the stress-producing hormones in the body. Although it may take longer for an acupuncture treatment to work, it can lead to lasting results and lower frequency of flare-ups in the future.
Why are more people starting to book Acupuncture Treatments?
1. An Alternative to Western Medicine
The truth is that while Western Medicine has greatly advanced in the past few decades and can now treat diseases that were once impossible to treat, there are still individuals living with misdiagnosed or undiagnosed conditions who are struggling to find answers in western medicine. While acupuncture treatments and TCM may not have answers, it may be able to see the symptoms from a different perspective, giving the patient insight into their condition and providing some alternative suggestions for how to take care of their symptoms.
2. Wholistic Preventative Care
Acupuncture treatments help boost the body’s natural functions so that the body not only heals, but maintains certain balances to prevent further recurrences of ailments. For example, Acupuncture has been scientifically proven to improve digestion so for an individual experiencing recurring symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, acupuncture can not only relieve the symptoms, but improve the patient's digestion and gut health so that they are less likely to experience the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in the future.
3. Natural Treatments
The practices of acupuncture through TCM are completely natural, which can be a benefit to those who have sensitivities to certain synthetic substances or treatments, already have weakened immune systems, or are children or seniors. Acupuncture treatments can help to increase blood flow, strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and help sleep patterns, amongst other benefits, which are all part of the body’s natural processes. To boost these systems, acupuncture uses stainless-steel, single-use medical grade needles that are inserted into the skin, but are removed at the end of the treatment. The herbs that may be prescribed are also made of all-natural ingredients.
Come Visit Us!
If you are living in Richmond, BC, and would like to try acupuncture treatments, Evolve Therapeutic has what you are looking for. Our multi-disciplinary clinic has acupuncture treatments four days each week, and our licensed and experienced professionals are ready to help you along your health and wellness journey. Located in the heart of Richmond and accessible by transit, our clinic is ready to welcome anyone and everyone who is looking to try the lasting effects of acupuncture! Click the link below to visit our booking site and check treatment availability.
