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acupuncture therapy myths benefits

Acupuncture Therapy – Myths and Misconceptions Busted

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Every person you ask will give you different information – right or wrong – about acupuncture therapy. This alternative medication has been around for more than 3,500 years. It has proven to be a cure for thousands of people around the world. But with such a therapy, a therapy that is relatively unknown in these parts of the world, many questions arise.

Let’s Bust All the Myths and Misconceptions

1.    “We are About Talking Needles – It Must Hurt.”

The thought of needles piercing through your skin can sound intimidating, but the needles that are used are very fine. They are the size of a cat whisker. The initial prick may feel like a mosquito bite, which is not always felt by everyone. In case of discomfort, you need to know that the pain will ease as the acupuncturist starts to adjust the needles. Once the pain has faded, a feeling of peace will take over you. When you being to feel the Qi sensation, it means your body is healing!

2.    “There Is No Scientific Reasoning behind It”

Acupuncture therapy has been categorized as folk medicine over the years because its drug free and has a noninvasive nature. Now, doctors around the world are using acupuncture as an alternative method to medicinal treatments. What people disregard is that not all natural alternatives need scientific reasoning. Acupuncture is the most natural way to treat certain problems without having the need to take many different medicines.

3.    “If The Results Does Not Show After One Treatment Then It Is Not Working”

People tend to ignore the fact that everyone has different responses to different stimuli. If someone is giving a good response to the first or second treatment, does not mean that everyone will. Some people need to go through the full course in order to feel the effect. Acupuncture’s effects build after every treatment. Not all acupuncturists use the same methods therefore the results may vary.

4.    “Acupuncture is Unhygienic”

A popular belief is that acupuncture therapy is unhygienic and it transmits infections to others. Opposing this popular belief, acupuncturists use separate needles for each patient. Many use disposable needles as well, so there is absolutely no chance of being infected. The USFDA checks the acupuncture needles regularly for the licensed practitioners.

5.    “It Is Going To Be Addictive”

Another belief by people is that once you start getting acupuncture treatments, you will always need to get them in order to feel good. In reality, the aim of acupuncture is to treat the problem so that you don’t need endless future treatments. For those who have chronic problems, a weekly acupuncture therapy session can do wonders.

6.    “It Will Not Fix the Problem”

Acupuncture therapy teaches your body systems to self-heal. The functions of the needle are to stimulate the parts of your body that produce painkillers so it can reduce inflammation, improve digestion, sleeping patterns and fight against illnesses.

Lauren Wig R.Ac. at Oliver Chiropractic Clinic is skilled in treating a variety of conditions. Give the clinic a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to book with her online!

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Acupuncture Points You Should Know

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Acupuncture has become a form of therapy that allows individuals to release energies from within their bodies so all pains can be released by targeting specific points. Regardless of what an individual’s age may be, he or she can gain the most benefits out of this therapy. For this reason, it is important for people to opt for this therapy, as there are no side effects!

The best part is that there are only five acupressure points for you to focus on. To apply pressure for yourself on these points, you do not need to have in depth knowledge about acupressure or acupuncture; you just need to know where the point is located and what symptoms you can fight  by having acupressure done.

How Is Acupressure Done

You need to deeply press the point for at least 2 to 3 minutes or until you begin to feel strong sensations. Sometimes, individuals feel warmth when the point releases energy in the energy channels (meridians) that is then directed to the rest of your body.

When this warmth takes over your body, it means you are doing it right!

1.     LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) – Common pain point

This point is connected with the face and head, which is why it helps with sinus problems, toothaches, and headaches. Since this point is powerful, it must not be done on pregnant women as it can stimulate contractions. However, if you are not pregnant and are suffering from pains, then you can use this point and calm your pains without having to resort to medication.

Uses:

  • Constipation
  • Neck pains
  • Sinus infections
  • Headaches
  • Toothaches
  • Migraines
  • Red/swollen eyes
  • Pains on your entire body

Location: The webbing between your index finger and thumb

2.     PC 6 (Pericardium 6) – Common calming point

This point is the best point to help calm an anxious person.

Uses:

  • Opens up and relaxes the chest: palpitations, asthma, angina
  • Nervousness
  • Poor memory
  • Nausea, motion sickness, seasickness
  • Sleeping disorders
  • Poor memory
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

Location: In the wrist in between two tendons that are up from the wrist

3.     Taiyang – Common headache and stress relief point

This is another point that will help relieve pains all over your body.

Uses:

  • Toothaches
  • Dizziness
  • One sided headaches
  • Migraines
  • Facial paralysis
  • Sinus issues

Location: The crease below and away from the eyebrow

4.     LV3 (Liver 3) – Common pain and stress relief

This point is beneficial in eliminating pain and stresses from your body.

Uses:

  • Eyes issues – pain, redness, swelling, or blurred vision
  • Genital issues
  • Calming point
  • Canker sores, headaches, dizziness
  • Menstrual issues
  • Digestive issues

Location: The webbing between the big toe and second toe (between two tendons)

5.     GB 20 (Gallbladder 20) – Common point for flu, cough, and cold

Uses:

  • Twitching, numbness, vertigo, paralysis, tremors, dizziness
  • Throat, face, and “sense organ help”
  • Eye issues
  • Hypertension
  • Fevers and chills
  • Stiff neck
  • All issues related to the head
  • Headaches that occur at the back of the head

Location: Back of the head, below the skull bone, on either side of the spine

 

You can apply pressure on these points at home or ask an acupuncturist to do so! Simply by incorporating it in your life will allow you to live a healthy life!

Our clinic is home to some of the best registered therapists in town. Give us a call at (780)455-2112 to schedule your appointment today! Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our therapists or to book online.

 

acupuncture benefits start edmonton

5 Reasons to Start Acupuncture Today

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Acupuncture therapy is a popular alternative to medicine that helps individuals release pains of all sorts without any side effects. However, when people think about fine needles being inserted into their bodies, they get hesitant in getting it done. The common thought related to this alternative medicine is “it is extremely painful and useless,” whereas it is the opposite.

We have the top reasons why you should start acupuncture today!

1.    Acupuncture Promotes Ultimate Relaxation

In today’s world, being in the state of ultimate relaxation seems like a far fetch thought. It is impossible to feel “unstressed” because individuals claim that they do not have sufficient amount of time for their families, work, or even themselves. Because of this, they tend to start getting chronically stressed, which causes endless damages to their bodies. In this case, the best thing to do is opt for acupuncture because it has the ability to calm the nervous system while it promotes feelings of serenity and relaxation. Individuals that get acupuncture done tend to fall into a deep and peaceful sleep afterwards.

2.    Acupuncture Helps You Get the Best Sleep

Almost 10% of the United States population suffers from insomnia (difficulty in falling or staying asleep). When a person is sleep deprived, quality of life begins to go downhill, which then begins to affect their health. Although, the common resort for many people would be sleeping pills, it is important to understand that these pills can be seriously detrimental to you. They form habits that lead to eccentric sleeping behaviors like sleep eating and walking and long term cognitive decline. Therefore, the best (and safe) resort would be acupuncture. It treats the roots that cause insomnia and leads to better health overall.

3.    Acupuncture can Treat Headaches

Those that suffer from headaches know how crippling they can be. Many individuals that suffer from chronic headaches are under the supervision of neurologists and go through conventional medical treatments for these pains yet do not seem to heal successfully. Luckily, acupuncture is known as the best therapy for treating headaches. Most commonly, people that suffer from headaches are the ones that opt for acupuncture because of the promising results. With the help of regular sessions, the severity and frequency of headaches lessens as well.

4.    Acupuncture Treatments Improves the Mood

Mood disorders like depression and anxiety tend to negatively influence the life of the person that is suffering from them. Although, there are many medications that are known to manage the symptoms of these disorders, in the long term, they do not seem to be safe. Whereas, acupuncture therapy is an effective and safe way of treating these mood disorders and improving the overall mood. People that see an acupuncturist on a regular basis feel a decrease in their depression and anxiety levels while happy moods are heightened.

5.    Acupuncture can Boost the Functions of the Immune System

Chinese medicine believes the “Wei Qi” is a protective energy barrier that is supposed to keep an individual healthy and it is supposed to strengthen the immune system so it protects us from pathogens. Chinese herbs and acupuncture are effective in making the “Wei Qi” stronger so it can prevent diseases while eliminating pathogens from the body for a speedy recovery. If an individual ingests Chinese herbs along with seeing an acupuncturist, they can treat issues like flues, colds, and respiratory disorders.

 

These are the top 5 reasons why you should see an acupuncturist today. If you want to lead a life that is healthy, acupuncture is the answer.

Give our clinic a call at (780)455-2112 to book with our registered therapist. For further information visit www.ocwc.ca .

Acupuncturist, Chinese Medicine,

How an Acupuncturist Helps

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Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine that works on releasing pains from your body. The best part is that more and more people have opted to see an acupuncturist because it is effective and it has no side effects. Since it has become a popular resort, it is important to have a better understanding about acupuncture.

What is Acupuncture?

In acupuncture, an acupuncturist will insert needles in your body in specific parts of your body. With the insertion of every needle, the acupuncturist will be balancing the energies within their body. This is supposed to cure some diseases and improve an individual’s mood/well-being.

Acupuncture is used for issues like blood pressure, whooping cough, and headaches.

How Does It Work?

According to Chinese medicine, a human’s health is supposed to be the result of “harmonious balance” that is meant to complement the “yin” and “yang” (also known as “qi”) of life. With imbalanced yin and yang, an individual is prone to getting ill quicker.

Qi flows through the pathways (or meridians) of the human body. These meridians are accessible throughout the body by 350 acupuncture points. By inserting the needles with the right combination, you will be able to release the flow of energy so your body is balanced properly.

Acupuncture points are also seen as the place where all muscles, nerves, and connective tissues meet and are stimulated. This stimulation makes the blood flow better while it activates the production of the body’s natural painkillers.

Acupuncture Uses

Researches done in Germany proved that acupuncture helps relieve migraines and headaches. The NCCIH also states that it helps with neck pains, lower back pains, knee pains, headaches, migraines, and osteoarthritis. In addition, the NCCIH had a list of additional disorders that may be cured with the help of an acupuncturist, but there is no scientific proof backing that up.

In 2003, the World Health Organization listed a few diseases that are cured by acupuncture and they include:

  • Painful periods
  • Gastric conditions
  • Low and high blood pressure
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Facial pains
  • Morning sickness
  • Sprains
  • Sciatica
  • Reduces the risk of strokes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Dental pain
  • Induces pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Dysentery
  • Allergies rhinitis

Benefits of Acupuncturist Treatment

Acupuncture is a form of therapy that has proven to have numerous health benefits. When acupuncture is performed properly, it is safe and it is a pain free process. With acupuncture, there are barely any side effects. When combined with treatments like chemotherapy (or any other treatments), acupuncture can be more effective. It eliminates feelings of nausea and vomiting. Acupuncture can control different pains (caused by injuries during sports or other activities) in your body. It helps patients that are taking medication that is not suitable for them.

Acupuncture is something that all individuals need to opt for so they can gain endless benefits out of it. It is the best way to release energies from within without leading to any side effects.

To book your next acupuncture appointment , give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112. To learn more about acupuncture checkout our website @ www.ocwc.ca.

Acupuncture Therapy DOs and DONTs

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Acupuncture therapy has started getting acknowledged for its endless benefits to the human body.

Although, many people are still hesitant when it comes to this therapy due to the thought of having fine needles getting inserted into their body, there are many that are opting for it.

Since acupuncture therapy is a big deal, it is important that everyone getting it is aware of certain DOs and DONTs related to it.

DOs

  • Make sure you are not on an empty stomach; eat something light before your treatment.
  • You must tell the acupuncturist if you have consumed alcohol, smoked tobacco or had caffeine.
  • Wear loose fitting clothes before and after the treatment.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment and try not to run.
  • Make sure to urinate before you step in for your appointment.
  • There will be a lot of paperwork, so be prepared.
  • Mentally prepare to be in the hospital for at least 1-hour. The needles while be inserted in you for at least 30 minutes.
  • Stay calm and relaxed during the treatment.
  • Try to stay away from your phone during the treatment.
  • If you need to cancel or postpone your appointment, it is important you call 24 hours in advance.
  • You need to pay very close attention to if and how your pains have lessened or the symptoms, if the pain that you were feeling has changed, or has there been any pain relives or mood changes.

DONTs

  • Avoid multitasking during your treatment.
  • You must not –at any cost- move your body when the needles are in.
  • Do not go to your treatment on an empty stomach or after indulging in a heavy meal.
  • Do not take too much physical, emotional, or mental stress upon yourself after the treatment.
  • Avoid all toxic substances during the day of your appointment.
  • Do not smoke after the session because it will slow down the healing power of your body.
  • You must not soak your body or go for a swim for at least 1 hour after your treatment.

The majority of these tips are made so you can stay protected before, during, and after your treatment. For example, swimming or bathing after a treatment is not advised because the microscopic holes that have been pierced into your body can cause infections.

Some of the suggestions that we have listed allow practitioners to get to accurate diagnoses. Drinking a cup of coffee before the treatment will stain your tongue and add a coat on top of it.

This could lead to inaccurate diagnoses and make your heart beat faster. Practitioners rely on the tongue and pulse when doing the diagnosis, which is why avoiding it before a treatment is recommended. Moreover, caffeine increases “firing of cortisol” that leads to feeling greater levels of pain.

Simply by doing and avoiding the tips mentioned above will allow you to gain maximum benefits out of your acupuncture session!

To book your next acupuncture therapy session, give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 and our helpful staff will find a time that works for you.

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Before, During, and After an Acupuncture Appointment

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Going for an acupuncture appointment can be intimidating for someone going for the first time. There are so many thoughts floating in mind, with the fear of being needled on the top of the list.

It is important to know what you must do.

Here are a few things that can definitely lessen stress during acupuncture treatments.

Before An Acupuncture Appointment

  1. Do You Have More Treatments?

After scheduling your appointment, consider other health or medical conditions you might have, especially if you are getting treatments for them. Prior to your appointment, it is important to let the acupuncturist know of these conditions so they can alter their treatment accordingly.

  1. Proper Clothing

When you go for your appointment, make sure you are wearing the right clothes. It is recommended that you wear loose clothes that the acupuncturist can easily maneuver and you can be comfortable.

In addition, it is important to reach the right point for the best results.

  1. Do Not Be Hungry

Many individuals begin to feel hungry during the treatment. Therefore, it is smart to eat something before going in for an appointment. Having a light snack can tame hunger. But make sure you are not eating greasy or heavy food before or after as it can upset your stomach.

  1. All Forms Must Be Completed Honestly

There will be forms that need to be filled before getting the treatment. Therefore, it is important you are answering all the questions honestly. It is important for the acupuncturist to know every single detail about you. In addition, giving the right information can immensely affect the treatment.

During An Acupuncture Appointment

Relax and Breathe

When the appointment begins, it is important to stay calm. By staying calm, your nerves and muscles will respond better and make it easier for the acupuncturist to perform their job. If there is something that is worrying you, ask your acupuncturist beforehand.

Just a single breath can calm the nervous system, therefore, it is important to stay as calm as you can.

When the needle enters your pressure point, keep breathing and make sure that your mind is in a peaceful state.

After An Acupuncture Appointment

  1. Keep Your Calm

Acupuncturists recommend resting as much as you can so healing can happen faster. It is important to drink a lot of water and to stay comfortable. Eat healthy foods (especially those that promote blood health), and make sure you are not working out too much.

There are many people who feel relaxed and rested after an acupuncture therapy, and some feel energized.

Make sure you know how your body is responding to the treatment before you get back to your fast-paced life.

  1. Give Feedback

It is important to look at your body’s responses after the appointment so you can let your acupuncturist know. This will be helpful for future treatments as well. If there is anything that concerns you, let your acupuncturist know.

Moreover, acupuncturists like to know how their patients feel after the treatment; therefore, it is nice to talk to them.

With these tips of what to do before, during, and after an acupuncture appointment, make sure you are getting the maximum benefits out of it. To book your next acupuncture appointment check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca to book your acupuncture appointment online. You can also call us @ 780-455-2112 and our staff will be happy to help you.

Post –Acupuncture Treatment- Take Care Of Yourself

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The motto that every person should have in his or her mind after an acupuncture treatment is “be good to yourself”. Although this may sound extremely vague, many acupuncturists suggest this to their patients.

Since acupuncture is known to “get things moving” in your body, it can cause your body to react in ways it might have never before.

As a result, you need to let these experiences occur, which is why you need to calm down and see how things go.

Many people may be wondering, “How can I be good to myself?” Well, it is simple. Follow the steps stated below and you will know how you can and how you should take care of yourself after your acupuncture treatment.

Plenty of Rest

Resting does not mean that you need to take naps all day or lie down. It simply means that you need to go easy on yourself. Avoid things like walking up six stories, babysitting pets and children, or going for a 3-mile run.

Try not to stay up too late. There are many people who get a kick of energy after their acupuncture treatment, but it is better to save it rather than drain it. By resting, you let your emotional and physical restoration take place.

Light Exercise

People are curious to know if they can work out after getting acupuncture done. Light exercises such as gradual and slow movements are good after a session. However, if you are a runner, you must walk. Whatever method of exercise you perform must be done at the beginner level.

Stay Away From Alcohol and Coffee

This is said for two reasons. The first one is that after an acupuncture treatment, you need to stay as hydrated as you can so that the toxins can be eliminated from your system.

When you are hydrated, you will successfully flush out all the toxins. Alcohol and coffee both cause the body to dehydrate, which is why they need to be avoided after an acupuncture treatment.

The second reason is that these liquids have the ability to irritate your body’s awareness. The goal of acupuncture treatment is to make you more aware of how you are feeling and provide you with clarity.

Alcohol and coffee have the ability to impair your senses, causing the acupuncture benefits to be minimized. You do not need to completely cut these two substances out of your life, but it is recommended to avoid them for a few days.

Indulge in Good Food

Acupuncture will be taking the toxins out of your body, which is why you should not put them back into your system by eating junk foods. You must avoid sugary and processed foods. Opt for foods that are known for their healing ability. Go for foods that will make you feel healthy and nourished.

Now that you are aware of acupuncture post care, you must make sure you follow it. It is important to take good care of yourself especially after a treatment like acupuncture. Our Edmonton Clinic has registered acupuncturists on staff to meet your needs. Give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

A Beginner’s Guide to Acupuncture

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Many people do not understand the healing benefits of acupuncture. In some ways acupuncture is fascinating. Fine needles inserted into the body to stimulate healing? The typical western health model may leave someone scratching there heads at that mode of treatment.

However, when you get a basic understanding of this treatment, you will understand how beneficial it can to get fine needles inserted into your body, with the help of professionals only.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of fine, stainless steel, sterile needles into specific points of your body. These points are known as acupuncture points and they are located in 12 main meridians that are connected to different organs in your body. By doing this, energy is released from these organs so you can heal.

What Did The Ancients Use During Acupuncture Treatment?

In the ancient times, instead of using fine needles, sharp bones and stones were used. Even when simple surgeries had to be done, these instruments were used. However as time has gone by, medicine evolved as well. There was invention of gold, bronze and silver needles were made and then finally stainless steel needles (used today). However, there are some acupuncturists who used golden needles.

The Physiological Effects of Acupuncture

  • It promotes blood circulation
  • It releases endorphins and neurotransmitters in your body
  • It stimulates the fibers of nerves
  • It also releases serotonin in the body
  • It releases adrenocorticotropic hormone in your body
  • It lessen inflammations
  • It reduces stress
  • It tends to relax contracted/shortened muscles
  • It restores the homeostasis in the body

Is Acupuncture A Form of Therapy?

Yes, it is, but keep in mind it is not magic. Depending on the condition, you have and if it is acute or chronic, the longevity of the treatment is decided. When the condition is chronic, it will take longer to treat, but when it is acute, it might take 2 to 3 sessions.

Most of the times, acupuncture is done so an individual’s body systems can be strengthened, but the sessions must be attended regularly. Moreover, when someone starts getting regular acupuncture treatments, there will be a change in diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, exercise, etc.

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Everyone, whether you are a child, pregnant female, a pro-athlete, an elderly, strong or weak person, you can gain the benefits of acupuncture.

Conditions That Can Be Treated By Acupuncture

According to the World Health Organization, many people suffering from diseases and conditions can experience benefits of acupuncture :

  • Acute and chronic gastritis
  • Sprains
  • Sciatica
  • Depression
  • Correction of malposition of fetus
  • Neck pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Dental pain
  • Low back pain
  • Temporomandibular (TMJ) dysfunction
  • Headache
  • Induction of labor
  • Morning sickness
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stroke
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Allergic rhinitis, including hay fever
  • Postoperative pain
  • Adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy

 

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has qualified registered massage therapists on staff. Give our clinic a call at 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

6 Things to Know About Acupuncture

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Over the years, acupuncture has become more and more popular because individuals see it as an alternative to western medicine. However, even now, many people do not know what to expect when they go in for their first visit.

Although, there are different techniques and styles of acupuncture,  there are the common tips to know about acupuncture.

1) It Will Be Treating More Than Just Pain

According to acupuncturists, patients must not skip sessions because they are feeling sick. Acupuncture not only aids with stomach viruses and common colds, but it can help with emotional and mental stress, skin diseases, dentistry, gout, cancer, neurological disorders, and infections, according to the World Health Organization.

2) Do Not Go On an Empty Stomach

It is important to have a –somewhat- full stomach before going in for your treatment. It is not important to indulge in a big meal, but your body just needs something that will energize you so you can get maximum benefits. If you get acupuncture on an empty stomach, it could lead to fainting, lightheadedness, and even dizziness.

3) You Will Not Need To Take Your Clothes Off

Sometimes, acupuncturists will need to be able to reach under your clothes, but if that needs to happen, they will put a covering on you so only some of your skin is exposed. You must keep in mind that wearing loose clothes is recommended so your sleeves or pants can be rolled up easily.

4) You Will Need to Get Your Pulse Check, Show Your Tongue, and Get an Abdomen Press

Since acupuncturists want to provide you with maximum benefits, they will want to see the “state of your internal organs.” These methods allow them to determine the ideal treatment for you. Similar to reflexology on your feet and hands, your pulse, the different parts of your tongue and abdomen have connections with the organs and systems within your body.

5) Be Prepared For Embarrassing Questions

For a thorough physical examination, the acupuncturist will ask you questions related to your lifestyle and health. Most of the time, the common questions will ask you for detailed answers related to your urination, bowel movements, and menstruation (for females). The more details you go in, the better the diagnosis will be.

6) Acupuncturists Use Tools Other than Needles Also

Needles are the main tool used during acupuncture, but acupuncturists have started looking for more tools that fall under the “Chinese Medicine” category. This includes Tuina (massage), cupping (suction of your skin), Chinese herbs, acupressure (using pressure on acupuncture points instead of needles), Guasha (scraping the skin), Moxibustion (heating the skin), or Qi Gong.

These are the top six things you must know when you are going to get acupuncture done. Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has excellent acupuncturists on staff. Check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com or give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started.