Acupuncture
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What is acupuncture?

Therapists insert very thin needles through a patient’s skin at strategic points. As a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. But more recently, it is used for overall wellness, including stress management.

At the Sport Medicine Clinic, our practitioners utilize electroacupuncture, which is a painless technique that precisely stimulates anatomical structures using fine, solid, sterile acupuncture needles with an electrical current.

Meet our Practitioners

Dr. Lawrence Micheli

Clinic Manager & Chiropractor

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Andrea Lilley

Athletic Therapist & Registered Massage Therapist

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Briana Bradstreet

Registered Physiotherapist

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First Time Visitors

Patient Forms

FAQ

What conditions are treated and/or improved with acupuncture?

Acute injuries that can be treated or improved by acupuncture include, but are not limited to:

  • Ankle sprain
  • Whiplash
  • Muscle tears
  • Ligament sprain
  • Low back pain
  • Post-operative orthopaedic procedures

Chronic injuries that can be treated or improved by acupuncture include, but are not limited to:

  • Headaches
  • Neck and back pain
  • Jaw pain or stiffness
  • Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, foot, shoulder)
  • Muscle weakness
  • Joint stiffness

How long is a typical acupuncture treatment?

Treatments usually last 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the goal of the treatment. However, acupuncture is often administered as part of a full treatment with manual therapy, meaning appointments are likely 45 to 60 minutes in length.

Who can provide acupuncture treatments?

Treatments are provided by licensed practitioners with specific training in acupuncture.

Can I come to the Clinic only for an acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is provided as part of your treatment, if it is deemed necessary by your healthcare provider during your initial assessment or as part of your ongoing treatment.

It is used in conjunction with manual therapy techniques.

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The number of sessions you’ll require is determined by your healthcare provider and based on your overall goals and outcomes of the treatment.

Is there anyone that acupuncture is not recommended for?

Acupuncture is not recommended for:

  • Those who have a needle phobia
  • Individuals with active inflammatory disease (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Those who’ve had an organ replacement
  • People who have a metastatic disease
  • Patients who take multiple medications

Treatment may cause bruising or bleeding locally, especially with patients taking NSAIDS, aspirin, or anticoagulants.

It is also important that you notify your practitioner if you are pregnant.

Is acupuncture covered by OHIP or my insurance?

Most insurance plans will offer coverage. Please check your individual plans for more details. Acupuncture is not covered under OHIP plans. The Sport Medicine Clinic will provide you with an invoice to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Do I need a referral to get acupuncture at the Sport Medicine Clinic?

You do not need a referral to get acupuncture at the Sport Medicine Clinic. Your therapist will assess you and help to determine if acupuncture should be added to your treatment plan.

Is the Sport Medicine Clinic accepting new patients for acupuncture?

Yes! Please call 416-865-0903 or email us today to book your appointment.