As a Registered Acupuncturist at Kollectiv Health, our primary goal is to provide comprehensive and collaborative alternative heaalthcare to patients who are seeking care and relief for numerous ailments. 

We offer comprehensive support for Fertility, Pregnancy, Sports Medicine Acupuncture, Pain Management, Mental Health support, Digestive support, Migraine relief, and far more. 

 

More about Acupuncture, Cupping and Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is a natural, drug free approach using the insertion of disposable surgical steel needles into the skin. Dependant on the style of acupuncture being used, needles are inserted into acupuncture points located along meridians, into auricular points on the ears or into mototr points within the muscles.

Acupuncture uses the receptor responses in the body to help regilate physiological functions in the body, allowing the body's natural healing responses to facilitate its own healing.

Acupuncture needles are so fine, that most patients feel nothing or a small "pinch" when needles are inserted. once needles are inserted, patients can feel a slight "heavy" or "tingling" sensation that is associated with the stimulation of the body's natural healilng response and the increase in blood flow to the area. As acupuncture utilizes the central nervousa system regulation in its healing process, it is not uncommon for patient to have a short but very deep sleep during their treatments, or to experiences deep relaxtion. 

Cupping is the placement of cups along varios points or muscles, and uses negative pressure to facilitate improved circulation, relief from muscle tension, and supports mobility. 

Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization as being effective in treating muskuloskeletal disorders, gynocological disorders, respiratopry disorders, circulatory disorders, mental emotional issues, neurological disorders, and respiratory disorders. 

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Your First Acupuncture Appointment

What to expect when starting acupuncture treatments

Comprehensive Health Evaluation:

Your session will begin with a detailed discussion about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific health concerns. This helps your practitio0ner understand the root causes of your symptoms and tailor the treatment to your unique needs. 

 

Personalized Treatment Plan:

Based on your evaluation, the practitioner will develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan outlines the acupuncture points that will be targeted, the number of sessions recommended, and any complementary therapies that may enhance your results. 

Gentle and Precise Needling:

During the assessment, you'll experience a demonstration of the acupuncture technique. The practitioner will gently insert fine, sterile needles into specific points on your body. This process is typically designed to stimulate your body's natural healing processes. 

 

Relaxation and Comfort:

Our priority is your comfort and relaxation. The assessment room is designed to be a peaceful and soothing environment. You'll be encouraged to communicate any sensations or concerns throughout the process to ensure a positive experience. 

 

Holistic Health Insights: 

Beyond needle placement, your practitioner may offer insights into dietary recommendatoins, stress management techniques, and lifestyle adjustments that support overall well being and complement your acupuncture treatments. 

 

Q&A Sessio9n:

Feel free to ask any questions you have about acupuncture, its benefits, and what to expect in future sessions. your practitioner is here tp provideclarity and confidence in your treatment journey. 

Embark on your path to wellness with confidence and peace of mind. Our acupuncture assessment is the first step towards a balanced and healthier you. Book your appointment today and discover the healing potential of acupuncture. 

 

What conditions does Acupuncture treat

These are some, but not all, conditions that Acupuncture is proven to treat

  • Pain Management: Acupuncture is particularly effective for chronic pain conditions, including osteoarthritis, migraines, tension headaches, and lower back pain. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses show significant pain relief in these conditions, often comparable to conventional treatments (BioMed Central) (AAMA).
  • Mental Health: Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies indicate that it can modulate the central nervous system, helping to reduce stress and improve mood (Evidence Based Acupuncture) (AAMA).
  • Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic constipation have been successfully managed with acupuncture. It helps regulate gastrointestinal function and reduce symptoms (AAMA).
  • Respiratory Disorders: It is beneficial for treating asthma, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and improve breathing (AAMA).
  • Gynecological Conditions: Acupuncture is used to manage menstrual pain, menopausal symptoms, and infertility. It helps balance hormones and improve reproductive health (AAMA).

Techniques

These techniques are employed based on the individual needs of the patient and the specific condition being treated. Each method aims to restore balance and promote the body's natural healing processes.

  • Needling:

    • Manual Needle Stimulation: Thin, sterile needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. The depth and angle of insertion vary based on the condition being treated. The needles may be gently twisted or moved during the treatment to enhance stimulation.
    • Electroacupuncture: Small electrical currents are passed through pairs of acupuncture needles. This technique is used to provide a stronger and more consistent stimulation than manual needling (MDPI).
  • Cupping:

    • Glass cups are placed on the skin to create suction. This method is thought to stimulate blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Cupping can be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture (Evidence Based Acupuncture).
  • Moxibustion:

    • This involves burning a herb called moxa (mugwort) near the skin at specific acupuncture points. The heat generated is believed to enhance the effects of acupuncture by warming and invigorating the flow of Qi (energy) in the body (Evidence Based Acupuncture).
  • Trigger Point Acupuncture:

    • Also known as dry needling, this technique targets myofascial trigger points (knots in the muscles) to relieve pain and improve mobility (AAMA).
  • Gua Sha:

    • Gua Sha involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged instrument to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases blood flow. This technique is used to address chronic pain, inflammation, and other conditions by breaking up scar tissue and connective tissue adhesions. It can also help reduce muscle tension and improve overall energy flow (AAMA) (MDPI).

Why combine Acupuncture with other treatments?

Combining acupuncture with other modalities such as massage therapy or manual osteopathy can enhance treatment outcomes and provide a more comprehensive approach to healthcare. Here are several reasons why this integrated approach is beneficial:

  1. Holistic Healing:

    • Synergistic Effects: Combining therapies can produce synergistic effects, where the combined treatments work better together than individually. For instance, acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation, while massage therapy can improve blood flow and relax muscles. Together, they can enhance overall pain relief and promote faster recovery (VA Health Systems Research) (AAMA).
    • Comprehensive Treatment: Addressing different aspects of a condition through various modalities can lead to more comprehensive healing. While acupuncture may target energy flow and internal imbalances, manual osteopathy and massage therapy focus on structural alignment and muscle relaxation (AAMA) (MDPI).
  2. Pain Management:

    • Enhanced Pain Relief: Studies have shown that combining acupuncture with other modalities like massage therapy can significantly enhance pain relief. Acupuncture can modulate pain pathways and reduce pain perception, while massage therapy can alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation (BioMed Central) (MDPI).
    • Chronic Conditions: For chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain, a combination of acupuncture and manual therapies can provide sustained pain relief and improve function (BioMed Central) (AAMA).
  3. Stress Reduction:

    • Mental and Physical Relaxation: Both acupuncture and massage therapy are known for their stress-reducing benefits. Acupuncture can balance the nervous system and reduce anxiety, while massage therapy can promote relaxation and reduce cortisol levels, contributing to overall well-being (Evidence Based Acupuncture).
    • Improved Sleep: Integrative approaches can help improve sleep quality by addressing both physical discomfort and mental stress. Better sleep contributes to overall health and faster recovery from ailments (MDPI).
  4. Personalized Care:

    • Tailored Treatment Plans: Integrative clinics can offer personalized treatment plans that cater to individual needs. Practitioners from different disciplines can collaborate to create a comprehensive care plan that addresses multiple aspects of a patient’s health (AAMA) (MDPI).
    • Patient-Centered Approach: Combining therapies allows for a more patient-centered approach, where treatments are adjusted based on the patient’s progress and feedback. This flexibility can lead to better patient satisfaction and outcomes (VA Health Systems Research).
  5. Prevention and Maintenance:

    • Preventive Care: Regular sessions combining acupuncture, massage, and manual osteopathy can help prevent the onset of various conditions by maintaining body balance, reducing stress, and improving immune function (Evidence Based Acupuncture).
    • Maintenance of Health: These combined therapies can support overall health maintenance by addressing minor issues before they become major problems, promoting long-term health and vitality (MDPI).

FAQ

  • Is acupuncture safe?

Answer: Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and licensed practitioner. The needles used are sterile, single-use, and disposable, minimizing the risk of infection. Common side effects are minor and may include slight bruising or soreness at the needle insertion points. Serious complications are rare (AAMA) (MDPI).

  • Does acupuncture hurt?

Answer: Most people report little to no pain during acupuncture treatment. The needles are much thinner than those used for injections, and the insertion process is typically not painful. Some patients might feel a mild tingling, warmth, or a slight aching sensation, which indicates that the treatment is working to stimulate the acupuncture points (Evidence Based Acupuncture) (MDPI).

  •  What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Answer: Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain (such as back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis), migraines, headaches, stress, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and symptoms associated with cancer treatment. It can also be used for overall wellness and preventive care (VA Health Systems Research) (AAMA).

  •  How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

Answer: The number of sessions needed varies depending on the condition being treated, its severity, and how your body responds to acupuncture. Some patients experience relief after just one or two sessions, while others may require a series of treatments over several weeks or months. Your acupuncturist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs (AAMA) (MDPI).

  • What if I don't do well with needles?

Answer: If you have a fear of needles or don't tolerate them well, there are several alternatives and modifications that can make acupuncture more comfortable for you. Acupuncturists are trained to use very thin, fine needles that cause minimal discomfort. Additionally, techniques such as acupressure (applying pressure to acupuncture points without needles), laser acupuncture (using low-level lasers to stimulate points), or even electroacupuncture (using electrical currents through needles without deep insertion) can be considered. Discuss your concerns with your acupuncturist, and they will work with you to ensure a comfortable and effective treatment plan (AAMA) (MDPI).

  • How soon will I feel better?

Answer: The timeline for feeling better after acupuncture varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, its severity, and individual response to treatment. Some patients experience immediate relief after the first session, while others may require a few treatments to notice significant improvement. Chronic conditions often require more sessions over a longer period, typically once or twice a week for several weeks. Your acupuncturist will develop a personalized treatment plan and can provide a more specific timeline based on your individual needs and progress (VA Health Systems Research) (BioMed Central) (AAMA).

A Registered Acupuncturist is a healthcare professional who has undergone formal training and is licensed or certified to practice acupuncture. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese Medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing, alleviate pain, and restore balance in the body's energy flow, known as Qi. Acupuncturists are trained to asses patient conditions, develop treatment pans tailored to their specific needs, and to safety administer treatments. They may also incorporate other modalities such as , herbals, cupping, moxibustion and electro-stimulation.

Dr. Carleen Tralenberg

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Dr. Kristin Zukowski

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