Through thousands of years of practice, acupuncture has evolved into a complete medical system that can diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It is a safe, effective, and painless way to treat a wide variety of conditions.

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Acupuncture is based on an energetic model that encourages your body's natural healing abilities. This health care system strengthens and improves overall function, enhances recuperative power and immunity, and so as to enable you to regain and keep physical and emotional health. The function of acupuncture is to ensure a continuous flow of vital life energy, called Qi.

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Qi circulates in human body through specific pathways called Meridians. When life-giving Qi flows smoothly through meridian pathways, it will nourish every cell, organ and tissue in your body. But if Qi becomes “backed up” in somewhere of your body, the Qi flowing to other areas will be restricted. Hindering the flow of Qi circulating within your meridian pathways can lead to pain and illness.

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An acupuncturist will then place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints along your meridian pathways. The safe and painless insertion of the needle unblocks the damming or obstruction of your meridians. Releasing this blockage allows the Qi to freely circulate, eliminating pain and restoring the body's ability to heal itself.

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Research shows that acupuncture is useful in the treatment of:
•    Painful muscle conditions and injuries (e.g., shoulder pain and ankle sprains)
•    Hip and knee osteoarthritis
•    Neck pain
•    Chronic low back pain
•    Headaches (migraine and tension)
•    Fibromyalgia
•    Pelvic and low back pain in pregnancy
•    Pain during labour

Acupuncture can also be used to treat:
•    Cancer-related fatigue
•    Multiple sclerosis
•    Parkinson’s disease
•    Dry mouth (often a side-effect of chemotherapy)
•    Stroke

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The number and location of needles used will vary based on your condition and treatment goals. Some notice the effects of treatment on their first visit, while others may need 5-8 treatments to see better results. 

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Yes. Any technique that punctures skin has a risk of complications. It is important you know the risks before treatment.

Common, mild complications that usually resolve on their own include:

• Pain with needle insertion or movement

• Bleeding or bruising at the needle site

• Post treatment drowsiness or fatigue

Less common complications that range from mild to significant include:

• Dizziness

• Extreme drowsiness or fatigue

• Forgotten needle

• Fainting

• Nausea

• Post-treatment pain or nerve irritation

• Emotional reaction

Sometimes, serious complications that may require attention from other health-care providers may occur, including:

• Breakage of needle within the body

• Infection

• Puncture of vital tissue (a puncture of lung tissue causing it to collapse, also known as a pneumothorax

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To reduce the risk of complications:

• Eat before your appointment

• Show up well rested to your appointment

• Tell Dr. Gao if you have any concerns, including past experiences where you have fainted from receiving a needle

• Let Dr. Gao know if you experience pain, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath or if you are feeling unwell

• Follow Dr. Gao’s advice about positioning and movement during and after treatment

• Inform Dr. Gao of any changes to medications such as blood thinners or pain relievers

Communicate with Dr. Gao throughout treatment. Discuss your treatment and ensure your questions are answered. You can request, at any time, that Dr. Gao stop needling.

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Acupuncture is one of many techniques that Dr. Gao may use. Discuss the benefits and risks of acupuncture and other available treatments with Dr. Gao. For some, such as those with needle fear or a history of fainting, an alternative treatment might be a better option.

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