Our licensed Naturopathic Doctors are trained & certified in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). We provide safe, evidence-informed, and individualized treatments for a variety of health concerns, integrating both Eastern and Western approaches to help restore balance and promote healing. We offer acupuncture for stress reduction, relaxation and to treat a multitude of pain conditions and health concerns.

Acupuncture, one of the oldest forms of medicine, works by placing thin, sterile needles into specific points along the body’s meridians to help restore the flow of Qi (energy) and balance yin and yang. From a modern biomedical perspective, acupuncture may help by increasing blood flow, supporting the nervous system, and stimulating the body’s natural healing responses.

Acupuncture Recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO)

According to the World Health Organization’s 2003 report Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials, acupuncture has been shown in controlled studies to be effective for a wide range of conditions. These include musculoskeletal pain (such as low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, and tennis elbow), headaches and migraines, nausea and vomiting (including morning sickness), induction of labour, correction of breech presentation, postoperative pain, and certain digestive, neurological, and respiratory conditions. The report also notes positive evidence for acupuncture in supporting recovery after stroke, managing menstrual and reproductive health concerns, and reducing side effects from chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

In addition to acupuncture, our Naturopathic Physicians are trained in:

• Moxibustion – burning of a medicinal herb (mugwort) over specific areas to warm and stimulate circulation

• Cupping Therapy – placement of suction cups on the skin to relieve muscle tension, stimulate blood flow, and encourage healing

• Traditional Chinese Botanical Medicines – Chinese herbal formulations are tailored to your individual health concerns to help return balance with-in your body

• Electrostimulation – gentle electrical stimulation applied to acupuncture needles to enhance therapeutic effects, particularly for muscle and nerve conditions

Acupuncture for Pain, Injury & Recovery

Acupuncture has been studied for its potential to support healing, reduce pain, and improve function. It can be used on its own or alongside other therapies such as cupping, massage, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or conventional medical treatments.

Common conditions that may benefit from acupuncture include:

• Muscle tension and overuse injuries

• Back and neck pain

• Joint pain and arthritis

• Acute injuries and sprains

• Post-surgical recovery

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Sciatica

• Headaches and migraines

Our Naturopathic Doctors can be an integral part of your pain management team, collaborating with other healthcare providers when appropriate.

Acupuncture for Fertility & Reproductive Health

We offer acupuncture for those preparing for pregnancy, supporting natural conception, and for individuals or couples undergoing assisted reproductive therapies such as IUI or IVF.

Acupuncture may help support reproductive health by:

• Promoting blood flow to the uterus and ovaries

• Supporting hormone balance

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Regulating menstrual cycles

For patients undergoing Assisted Reproductive Therapies including  IUI, IVF, or ICSI, acupuncture can be timed to support each specific stage of the reproductive cycle. Our Naturopathic Doctors are experienced in working collaboratively with our local fertility clinic to provide integrated care. We offer support for many patients attending Olive Fertility Clinic in Victoria.

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Acupuncture is used by many patients during pregnancy to support wellness and address common pregnancy-related concerns. Treatment plans are individualized based on your stage of pregnancy and overall health, and may address:

• Morning sickness and nausea

• Back, pelvic, and hip pain

• Sciatica and restless legs

• Headaches and migraines

• Sleep difficulties

• Skin disorders and itching

• Breech or malposition (in collaboration with your maternity care provider)

• Labour preparation starting at 37–38 weeks (if approved by your maternity care provider)

Postpartum & Breastfeeding Support with Acupuncture

After childbirth, acupuncture may be used to help support recovery and overall well-being. Common postpartum applications include:

• Supporting mood balance and stress reduction

• Promoting physical recovery after delivery and improve blood flow

• Hemmorhoids 

• Supporting energy levels and sleep

• Assisting with breastfeeding-related discomforts such as low supply, pain, over supply, mastitis or blocked ducts

Collaborative Care & Coverage

We often work in collaboration with other healthcare providers, including physicians, midwives, physiotherapists, and counsellors, to ensure you receive well-rounded care. We offer direct billing for acupuncture performed by our Naturopathic Doctors covered under Naturopathic Medicine for most extended health insurance plans. Whether you are seeking pain relief, fertility support, pregnancy care, or help with recovery after childbirth, acupuncture at Vancouver Island Naturopathic Clinic Inc. is tailored to your individual needs.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward restoring balance and supporting your health.