Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | Symmetry Health & Wellness

What conditions are treated with acupuncture?

The World Health Organization lists more than 40 conditions for which Traditional Chinese Medicine - acupuncture is appropriate therapy:

Digestive Conditions: abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, hyper-acidity and indigestion
Emotional Conditions: anxiety, depression, insomnia, nervousness and neurosis
Eye-Ear-Nose-Throat Conditions: cataracts, gingivitis, poor vision, tinnitus and toothache
Gynecological Conditions: infertility, menopausal symptoms and premenstrual syndrome
Musculoskeletal Conditions: arthritis, back pain, muscle cramping, muscle pain/weakness, neck pain, sciatica
Neurological Conditions: headaches, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, Parkinson’s disease, postoperative pain and stroke
Respiratory Conditions: asthma, bronchitis, common cold, sinusitis, smoking cessation and tonsillitis
Miscellaneous Conditions: addiction control, athletic performance, blood pressure regulation, chronic fatigue, immune system tonification and stress reduction

Is acupuncture safe?

Performed by a competent practitioner, acupuncture is extremely safe. There are no side effects and is drug-free. The skin is treated with alcohol and acupuncturists are required to use disposable needles that are discarded after one use so there is little risk of infection.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Many people maybe uncomfortable with Acupuncture because of a fear of needles. Acupuncture needles are very thin and bear little resemblance to the needles used by Western medical doctors. The experience of being needled is totally unique and rarely painful. Sometimes you'll feel a small prick when the needles are inserted and it may turn into a dull pressure, tingling sensation along the meridians or brief sensation of heat around the area during treatment, but mostly you won't feel anything at all.

How many needles are used?

In a usual treatment we use between 10-15 needles. Sometimes the needles are placed near the problem areas and sometimes it is in a totally different area of the body.

How often do I need to come for treatments?

The number of treatments needed is unique to the individual and depends on the illness, the severity of your condition, how long you've had the condition, your current health and your overall level of energy or “qi”. The general treatment schedule is weekly, unless the issue is pain related then sometimes it is twice weekly. For some patients, acupuncture can start to work right away, but for others, the treatments are cumulative and sometimes can take 3-4 visits before the fullest effects are felt. Typical treatment programs are between 5-10 sessions. The ultimate goal of treatment is to resolve the root cause of your symptoms. Many patients also find it useful to have treatments for routine maintenance.

For best results, how should I prepare?

Please arrive on time so you get the full treatment time.
Take note of your body condition. Your acupuncturist will ask you questions regarding your general health, not just the current symptoms you are experiencing.
Be sure to ask and discuss any concerns you have with your acupuncturist.
Wear lose clothing as your acupuncturist will need access to acupuncture points on your body.
Don’t eat a large meal or consume alcohol before or after your visit.
Do not over exert yourself before or after treatment.
Try to be relaxed during treatment.Treatments are more effective when you can remain relaxed.
Stay hydrated (drink water) following your treatment
Take note of any changes between treatments.

Does health insurance cover acupuncture treatments?

Most health insurance plans will cover acupuncture treatments and can be added if it is not in your plan,

We offer direct billing to insurance companies connected through Telus Health, Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life and many more.

Do you accept MSP?

We do accept MSP coverage. $23 of MSP coverage will be subtracted from service fees.

Talk to your acupuncturist about direct billing and reduced service fees.

Do you accept ICBC claims?

Symmetry Health & Wellness is a registered ICBC provider. As of April 1st, 2019, clients who have been in an accident are automatically pre-approved for 12 acupuncture treatments within the first 12 weeks after the accident. We offer direct billing to ICBC.

All you need is your ICBC Claim Number and adjuster contact details.