Acupuncture in South Edmonton
As an ideal adjunct to chiropractic care, we use acupuncture when we see health problems that seem to be caused by disruption to energy pathways in your body called meridians. This centuries-old healing discipline is designed to focus on the integrity of bodily systems.
The best part? It’s extremely relaxing, comfortable and gentle.
How Does it Work?
During a session, we’ll place extremely thin needles into various points of your body that require attention. We’ll identify these areas after speaking with you about the problems you’re experiencing. Most patients don’t ever feel the needles being inserted because they’re incredibly gentle and thin.
The best way to think about what’s happening as you undergo an acupuncture session is to imagine rivers of energy throughout your body, organized by meridians.
These meridians can experience a “traffic jam” and energy flow can become restricted. The needles help loosen the jam and allow energy to circulate properly.
The idea is that your body works better when your internal traffic (nerves and energy) are flowing freely.
Cupping Therapy
It was famously used in the 2008 Beijing Olympics to alleviate athletic injuries and pain. We sometimes employ cupping therapy during your treatment to balance out the system and get blood moving or to treat respiratory diseases like the common cold, pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as back, neck, shoulder and other musculoskeletal pains
When you arrive for a cupping session your practitioner will discuss your condition and goals for the session. They will then apply small plastic suction cups or glass cups to your skin. The cups don’t hurt but they do pinch a little bit. Most patients find the sensation enjoyable. I like to describe it as a backwards deep tissue massage- the cups are pulling rather than pushing. When the suction cups are removed they will leave marks on the skin- some people describe them as bruises but they are more productive than bruises and can be used diagnostically as well. The color of the marks left on the skin gives us information about the condition of the muscle. Please be sure to keep the cupping marks warm and covered for a couple of days- it is a great idea to bring an extra scarf to your session. It is also important to drink a lot of water after the cupping session.
Gua Sha
In gua sha, a provider scrapes your skin with short or long strokes to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases blood flow. They make these strokes with a smooth-edged instrument known as a gua sha tool. The technician applies massage oil to your skin, and then uses the tool to repeatedly scrape your skin in a downward motion. Gua sha is intended to address stagnant energy, called chi, in the body that practitioners believe may be responsible for inflammation.
Inflammation is the underlying cause of several conditions associated with chronic pain. Rubbing the skin’s surface is thought to help break up this energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Gua sha is generally performed on a person’s back, buttocks, neck, arms, and legs. A gentle version of it is even used on the face as a facial technique. Your technician may apply mild pressure, and gradually increase intensity to determine how much force you can handle.
Robin Cho
Robin Cho is a licensed acupuncturist, known for a deep commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of patients. Born in South Korea and subsequently embarking on an academic journey to the United States, he completed rigorous studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine at South Baylo University in California. These educational endeavors provided a solid foundation in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, fostering a profound understanding of the principles and practices within this ancient discipline.
With a dedicated spirit, Robin’s professional journey led to the state of Washington, where he became an integral part of a thriving acupuncture clinic, serving a diverse community. Over 6 years, he specialized in an area of expertise: pain management. He employs a wide array of techniques to provide exceptional care tailored to the unique health needs of his patients. His extensive toolkit includes various modalities, including fire cupping, moxibustion, Guasha, and electro acupuncture. These techniques, when applied with precision and care, have demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in addressing a multitude of health concerns.
Robin is prepared to partner with you on your journey toward optimal health and well-being. Together, you can explore the remarkable benefits of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to address specific health challenges and elevate your quality of life.
Acupuncture Fees
- Initial Assessment Acupuncture (60 minuntes) – $119.00
- Subsequent Acupuncture (50 minutes) – $110.00
- Cupping Therapy (30 minutes) – $60.00
Frequently Asked Questions
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