FAQ

  1. What can I expect for my first acupuncture appointment?

At your first acupuncture appointment, your acupuncturist will discuss your primary health concerns, review your health history, and perform an assessment that may include a physical examination. This comprehensive evaluation helps us better understand your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Following the assessment, you will receive your acupuncture treatment. Your practitioner will also answer any questions you may have and discuss recommendations for ongoing care.

  1. What do I need to do for my first acupuncture appointment?

For your first acupuncture appointment, please complete your health history and intake forms before or when you arrive. It is helpful to eat a light meal or snack beforehand, stay hydrated, and wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and legs.

Please also bring a list of any medications or supplements you are currently taking and let your acupuncturist know about any relevant medical conditions, recent surgeries, or other treatments.

Most importantly, come prepared to discuss your main concerns and what you would like to achieve from treatment. Your acupuncturist will review your health history, perform an assessment, and explain the treatment plan with you.

  1. What should I bring for my appointment?

If it is your first time visiting our clinic, or you wish to update your insurance information, please bring your insurance card or information. 

  1. Where are you located? I cannot find you.

We are located at 6411 Cartmell Place SW, Edmonton, AB in southwest Edmonton.

We are in the Chappelle area, just off 41 Avenue SW, near Chappelle Road SW and 141 Street SW. Our location is in the Cartmell Place commercial area, close to the Chappelle/Heritage Valley neighbourhoods.

If you are having trouble finding us, please search “6411 Cartmell Place SW, Edmonton” in Google Maps or your preferred navigation app. 

  1. How many times in total do I need to come in for treatment?

The number of acupuncture treatments needed varies from person to person and depends on your condition, how long you have been experiencing it, the severity of your symptoms, and how you respond to treatment.

Some patients notice improvement after just a few treatments, while others may require a longer course of care. At your first appointment, your acupuncturist will assess your condition and discuss a personalized treatment plan with you.

Your progress will be monitored throughout your care, and the frequency of treatments can be adjusted as your symptoms improve.

  1. I am on my period. Can I still do acupuncture?

Yes, acupuncture is generally safe during your period. In fact, many patients receive treatment to help relieve menstrual cramps, low back pain, headaches, bloating, and other cycle-related symptoms. If you have heavy bleeding or specific health concerns, please tell your practitioner before your appointment.

  1. I recently had surgery. Can I still do acupuncture?

In most cases, yes. Acupuncture can generally be received after surgery and is often used to support recovery, manage pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall well-being.

Since your surgery was six months ago, the surgical site has typically had sufficient time to heal. However, the safety and timing of treatment depend on factors such as the type of surgery, your current symptoms, the presence of any implants or medical devices, and whether there are any ongoing complications. Acupuncture should not be performed directly over areas that are still healing, inflamed, infected, or otherwise medically restricted.

Please let your practitioner know what type of surgery you had and whether you are experiencing any ongoing symptoms. We will review your health history and tailor your treatment plan to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual situation.

If you have any concerns, feel free to contact our clinic before booking your appointment.

  1. I am sick/have a stomachache. Can I still do acupuncture?

In many cases, yes. Acupuncture can generally be received when you have a mild illness or digestive discomfort, and some patients seek treatment for symptoms such as headaches, sinus congestion, nausea, indigestion, bloating, or stomach discomfort. 

However, if you have a fever, a contagious illness, severe vomiting or diarrhea, significant weakness, dehydration, or any symptoms that may require urgent medical attention, we recommend postponing treatment and consulting a healthcare provider as appropriate. 

Please let your practitioner know about your symptoms, any recent diagnoses, and any medications you are taking so that your treatment can be tailored to your individual needs.

  1. Can my child do acupuncture?

Yes, acupuncture can be provided to children and adolescents when clinically appropriate. Treatment is adapted to the child’s age, size, comfort level, and individual health concerns. Depending on the child’s age and needs, very gentle techniques or non-needle approaches may also be considered.

Our practitioners will first review the child’s health history and assess whether acupuncture is appropriate. We also encourage parents or guardians to discuss any medical conditions, medications, or ongoing treatments with the practitioner before treatment.

For younger children, cooperation and comfort are especially important. If your child is nervous about needles, please let us know when booking so we can discuss the most appropriate approach.

  1. Why should my child do massage?

Massage therapy can offer several potential benefits for children when provided appropriately by a qualified massage therapist. It may help promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, support flexibility and mobility, and relieve everyday muscle soreness or discomfort. It can also provide a calming experience and may support overall physical and emotional well-being.

One type of Traditional Chinese Massage, Tuina Massage, is particularly useful as support treatment for several pediatric conditions such as common cold, persistent coughing, constipation, low appetite, delayed growth, restlessness/insomnia, nocturnal enuresis, and many more.

Children require a different approach than adults, so massage techniques, pressure, and treatment duration are adapted to the child’s age, development, and individual needs. Parents or guardians should inform the therapist about any medical conditions, injuries, medications, or other health concerns before treatment.

For children with an acute injury, significant pain, or an underlying medical condition, we recommend consulting their healthcare provider before receiving massage therapy.

  1. I am pregnant; is it safe to do acupuncture or massage?

Yes. Acupuncture is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Many patients receive acupuncture to help manage pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea, back pain, headaches, stress, and sleep difficulties. Please let your practitioner know that you are pregnant and how far along you are so your treatment can be appropriately tailored.

Insurance (Direct Billing)

Most individual insurance plans cover acupuncture and massage therapy. Please contact your insurance company directly to find out whether your plan covers for acupuncture and if there is limitation to the number of treatments covered. Direct billing is available for the following insurance providers:

  • Alberta Blue Cross
  • Avantages Sociaux MÉDIC Construction
  • BPA – Benefit Plan Administrators
  • Canada Life
  • Canadian Construction Workers Union
  • Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance
  • CINUP
  • ClaimSecure
  • Coughlin & Associates Ltd.
  • Cowan
  • D.A. Townley
  • Desjardins Insurance
  • Empire Life
  • Equitable Life of Canada
  • First Canadian
  • GMS Carrier 49
  • GMS Carrier 50
  • Great West Life Benefits (Canada Life)
  • Green Shield Canada
  • GroupHEALTH
  • GroupSource
  • Industrial Alliance
  • Johnson Inc.
  • Johnston Group Inc.
  • La Capitale/Beneva
  • LiUNA Local 183
  • LiUNA Local 506
  • Manion
  • Manulife Financial
  • Maximum Benefit
  • NexgenRx
  • People Corporation
  • RBC Insurance
  • RWAM Insurance Administrators
  • SSQ Insurance
  • Sun Life Canada
  • TELUS AdjudiCare
  • The Co-operators
  • Union Benefits
  • Union Benefits Local 47 (Manulife Financial)
  • UV Insurance