Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and supports the body across a wide range of conditions, including:

• Pain (back, neck, joints, headaches and migraines, sciatica, sports injuries)

• Stress, anxiety, and burnout

• Insomnia and poor sleep

• Hormonal and menstrual irregularities

• Fertility support, including alongside IVF

• Menopause and perimenopause

• Digestive issues (IBS, bloating, acid reflux)

• Seasonal allergies and respiratory health

• Immunity, fatigue, and recovery from illness

• Skin conditions and oncology support

For a complete list, please visit our Conditions We Treat page. If you're unsure whether TCM can help with what you're experiencing, feel free to reach out before booking.

You're not alone. Many of our patients tell us they were nervous about needles before their first visit, and many had put off trying acupuncture for years because of it. At DaBōK, we offer two approaches designed to make treatment comfortable, even for the most needle-anxious patients.

The Heishui Method, our primary acupuncture technique, was developed for precise and nearly painless needle insertion. The needles are ultra-fine, finer than a strand of hair, and most patients report feeling only a light tap or mild sensation, similar to a mosquito bite that fades within seconds.

For patients who prefer no needle insertion at all, we offer non-insertive Daishin, a traditional Japanese technique where a small wooden mallet is used to gently tap a blunt needle against the surface of the skin. The needle does not pierce the skin. The therapeutic effect comes from rhythmic tapping that stimulates acupuncture points through gentle vibration and pressure. Daishin is especially well-suited for children, elderly patients, and those with sensitive constitutions.

When you book, please feel free to mention if you'd prefer a needle-free treatment.

Most people are surprised by how painless acupuncture is. The needles are extremely fine, about the width of a strand of hair, and you may feel only a light tap or a brief, dull sensation as the needle is placed. Many patients find treatments deeply relaxing and even fall asleep during sessions.

Our acupuncture follows the Heishui Method, a refined needling technique developed specifically for precise, gentle insertion. For patients who feel anxious even with very fine needles, we also offer non-insertive Daishin (see Question 2).

In most cases, yes. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments performed by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.) and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (TCMP) are covered by most extended health benefit plans in Canada, including those from major providers like Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross.

Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend checking with your insurance provider for:

• Annual coverage limits

• Whether acupuncture and TCM are covered under separate categories

• Whether a doctor's referral is required

We provide detailed receipts after each visit that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

For most extended health insurance plans, no referral is required. However, some plans (especially older or employer-specific ones) may ask for one for reimbursement purposes. We recommend confirming with your insurance provider in advance.

You do not need a referral to book an appointment with us. You can book directly anytime.

It depends on your condition and health goals.

• Acute conditions (recent injury, short-term stress): 1 to 2 sessions per week for a few weeks may be enough

• Chronic or complex conditions (hormonal imbalance, insomnia, long-standing pain): weekly sessions for 4 to 8 weeks, with reassessment along the way

• Maintenance and prevention: once or twice per month is often sufficient

Everyone responds differently. We'll assess your progress at each visit and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Your first visit is approximately 75 to 90 minutes and includes a full consultation, where we'll discuss your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. We'll also use pulse and tongue diagnosis to understand the patterns underlying your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan.

A typical session involves:

1. You'll lie down comfortably on a treatment table (face up, face down, or on your side, depending on the treatment).

2. After cleaning the skin, fine sterile needles are gently inserted into selected acupuncture points.

3. The needles remain in place for 20 to 40 minutes while you rest in a calm, quiet setting. Many patients find this deeply relaxing and some fall asleep.

4. Depending on your needs, treatment may also include moxibustion, cupping, or manual techniques.

After treatment, most people feel calm, relieved, or slightly tired. This is a normal sign that your body is rebalancing itself.

De Qi (得气) is a term from Traditional Chinese Medicine that refers to the unique sensation you may feel when the acupuncture needle connects with your body's Qi (vital energy). It is often described as:

• A heavy or spreading feeling

• A sense of pressure, tingling, or warmth

• Occasionally, a light electric or pulling sensation

This is a normal and positive sign that the treatment is stimulating your body's natural healing response. Not every point produces a strong sensation, and not every person feels it the same way.

De Qi is not sharp pain. If anything feels uncomfortable, please let us know and we'll adjust immediately.

Before:

• Eat a light meal 1 to 2 hours before

• Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing

After:

• Drink water

• Rest if possible

• Avoid strenuous exercise for a few hours

• Be mindful of how your body feels

Yes, acupuncture is complementary to most Western medical treatments and works well alongside conventional care. Please let us know what medications, supplements, or therapies you're using at your first visit so we can tailor your treatment plan appropriately.

Yes. When performed by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.), acupuncture is safe and minimally invasive. At DaBōK, we use sterile, single-use needles and follow the Clean Needle Technique (CNT) along with the safety and hygiene standards set by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).

You can book online through our Book Appointment page or call/text us at (437) 422-8606.

If it's your first time, please book the Initial Consultation + Treatment session. This is required for all new patients and gives us time to do a full diagnostic assessment along with your first treatment.

Our session options:

• Initial Consultation + Treatment(new patients) — 75 to 90 minutes, $140

• Follow-Up Treatment(returning patients) — 60 minutes, $120

• Maintenance Session(established patients) — 30 minutes, $80

Detailed receipts are provided after each visit for insurance reimbursement.