When people think of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), most would think of acupuncture and pain relief. However, TCM is a primary form of healthcare that has specializations in many different medical fields, making it effective for numerous health problems, including:

• chronic and acute pain (arthritis, back/neck, tennis elbow)
• stress, anxiety and emotional difficulties
• fertility and gynecology issues (menstrual pain, irregular periods, infertility)
• digestive concerns (IBS, colitis, constipation, diarrhea)
• headaches/migraines

TCM has evolved for thousands of years and includes a refined theory that looks at the individual as a microcosm to the universe. By reinforcing or reducing the elements (water/dampness, fire/heat, cold, wind, earth) in the human body, the TCM practitioner can bring the body back into harmony and balance.

Acupuncture originated in ancient China centuries ago, and is used as a method to prevent disease and to bring the body back into harmony when out of balance. With the insertion of very fine needles into mapped-out points along the human body's meridian system, the TCM practitioner can manipulate the body's energy force, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), to help the patient restore his/her internal balance. Clinical research on acupuncture has yielded encouraging results and its practice is now being incorporated into many hospitals and healthcare clinics throughout North America and the world.

Auricular Acupuncture

Ear Acupuncture. The whole body is mapped out on the ear, so different reflex points are stimulated to enhance a treatment or work on its own.

Cupping

A comfortable technique which employs the use of specialized glass cups placed on various parts of the body. Excellent for muscle aches and pains, as well as cold and flu relief.

Electro Acupuncture

An electrical stimulus is provided via the acupuncture needles to enhance the treatment. This technique works well for pain management or for repetitive strain conditions.

Gua Sha

A superficial skin scraping technique, great for stubborn, chronic pain conditions.

Heat Lamp

A special lamp used over areas with or without needles to warm the area, another great technique for "cold" conditions.

Moxibustion

Application of heat at or near specific acupuncture points. Moxibustion is great for "cold" conditions such as joint pain which often get worse in cold weather.

Clean Needle Technique

Balance Integrated Healthcare uses only sterile, disposable needles and strictly adheres to the CNT protocol, to ensure the safest possible acupuncture treatment. In 1984, the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) addressed the issue of clean needle technique and went on to develop the guidelines and recommendations for the safe and clean practice of acupuncture.

For more information on the Clean Needle Technique protocol, please feel free to talk to one of our knowledgable practitioners.