1921 St. Mary's Road At Britannica

Winnipeg, Manitoba R2N 1J4 Canada

204-253-6995

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Acupuncture - Body, Mind and Spirit

Acupuncture - Ancient Remedy for Modern Times

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic method used to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain, and improve function of affected areas in the body.  Safe and effective, it is often used as an alternative to medications or even surgery.  Relief is often obtained when traditional medical therapy has failed.  Acupuncture involves the insertion and placement of very fine needles through the skin and tissues at specfic points on the body.  There is no injection or any substance on the needle and the treatment itself causes minimal to no discomfort.

How does it work?

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own pain relieving chemicals called "endorphins" which help to block pain, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation and restore the body's own internal regulation systems.  This improved energy and biochemical balance stimulates the body's natural abilities and promotes physical and emotional well being.

Does it hurt?

People experience differing sensations with acupuncture.  Most patients feel only minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all.  Once the needles are in place, there should be no discomfort.  Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and are made from stainless steel.  Two or three acupuncture needles would easily fit inside the barrel of a regular hollow needle used for injections.

What are the clinical uses for acupuncture?

Acupuncture is very effective in treating a variety of acute and chronic pain disorders.  At River Park South Chiropractic Center, acupuncture is only provided for conditions that are considered to be within the scope of chiropractic practice in Manitoba.  Patients who receive acupuncture as a component of their treatment program at our office will be receiving it to complement their NMSK treatment plan.  In providing any treatment, a correct diagnosis is important before any decisions are made regarding therapy.  Once we have established the diagnosis, we can advise whether acupuncture is appropriate.

How long before we see results?

The number of treatments varies with each individual and the condition being treated.  Fo acute problems, only a few treatments may be required.  In some cases, one treatment might be sufficient.  For complex or long standing conditions, two to three treatments a week for several weeks may be necessary with less treatment required as improvement occurs.  Treatment sessions usually last between 15 and 30 minutes.  Relief may be immediate or occur within a few hours, or after a few days.

What can I do to make my treatment the best it can be?

  1. EAT!  Having a small meal before your treatment is essential.  Acupuncture requires some energy to be used by your body.  Your 'gas tank' therefore needs to have something in it to draw from.
  2. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine 2 hours before and 2 hours after treatment.
  3. Avoid strenuous activities following treatments.  Many times, patients will experience a sense of well being and relaxation that beckons a nap.  Go with it and rest.
  4. Wear comfortable clothing - tank tops and shorts are great to access areas in the body required for acupuncture.  Please note that even if your problem is not on your feet or lower legs, we may have to access those areas to generate a systemic effect for greatest results.
  5. Be complete with your explanations of what you are feeling and advise if there is any change in your condition, for example - Pregnancy or a new pacemaker.

Hazards / Complications?

In the practice of acupuncture, there are some risks to treatment, including, but not limited to, minor bleeding or bruising, minor pain or soreness, nausea, fainting, infection, shock, convulsions, possible perforation of internal organs or cavities, and stuck or bent needles. 

Is it covered by my Provincial Health Plan or Private Insurance?

The fee for acupuncture is not covered by Manitoba Health.  Many private insurance plans do have provisions for acupuncture treatment.  In some cases we are able to directly bill private insurance companies for chiropractic services when the acupuncture has been provided as an adjunctive modality to chiropractic treatment.  Call our office for further clarification.

We are so pleased to provide acupuncture as an alternative modality at River Park South Chiropractic by appointment only.  Please call for information or to schedule your appointment - (204) 253-6995.

Dr. Audrey Toth is certified through the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute which is recognized by the Manitoba Chiropractors' Association

Same day appointments available.

Sign-up using the form to see us today if possible. Alternatively, give us a call at 204-253-6995.

We are happy to help you today!

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00am

7:00pm

Tuesday:

3:00pm

6:00pm

Wednesday:

8:00am

7:00pm

Thursday:

3:00pm

6:00pm

Friday:

8:00am

7:00pm

Saturday:

10:00am

1:00pm

Sunday:

Closed

Closed

Locations

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Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "I would like to thank Dr. John for helping me get moving again. If it wasn't for your help I'd still be sockless. I'd also like to thank Dr. Audrey for introducing me to the nearly instantaneous relief of acupuncture and helping me walk without pain again. You two have to be the most caring couple ever. I would have never gotten this far if it wasn't for the two of you. I can't thank you enough."
    - D.M., Winnipeg / Winnipeg, Manitoba
  • "For years I suffered with foot pain that made each step a misery. Dr. John found the problem and he has helped me fix it. Getting customized orthotics for my shoes was an improvement and a treatment plan for my feet keeps me going completely pain free. I really like how Dr. John's office can accommodate my busy work schedule to fit in my treatments."
    M.C., Winnipeg/Winnipeg, Manitoba
  • "I have seen chiropractors all my life. Some chiropractors can be very rushed or very rigid in terms of what types of care they will offer or recommend. The care I received at this office was above and beyond anything I had before. I appreciate the availability and the consistency of care options."
    A.D., Winnipeg/Winnipeg, Manitoba
  • "When I had my car accident, I was shocked at how much pain I was in. I could barely move my neck. Dr. Audrey was there for me. I was surprised at the effect that chiropractic care had on helping me to recover. It seemed that when I would start to stiffen up again, chiropractic treatment would settle things down right away. And this was a really good thing because I couldn't afford to miss opportunities or any time from work. That was two years ago. Even now that the accident case has closed I still see Dr. Audrey every month or two just to keep feeling good."
    C.C., Winnipeg/Winnipeg, Manitoba

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