Services & Modalities

Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine

An ancient practice backed by modern research — acupuncture promotes blood flow, reduces inflammation, and helps rebalance your body's systems.

Developed in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture has far more applications today than most people realize. Originally designed to balance the energy channels in your body called meridians, modern research has found that acupuncture promotes blood flow, decreases inflammation, and stimulates nerve endings to alter signalling in your brain. It can be used for pain, stress, hormones, digestion, fertility, and much more.

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points correspond to nerve-rich areas that, when stimulated, trigger your body's natural healing responses. Modern research shows acupuncture can increase local blood flow, reduce inflammatory markers, stimulate endorphin release, and modulate the autonomic nervous system — shifting your body from "fight or flight" toward "rest and repair."

Traditional Chinese Medicine views symptoms as signals of imbalance in the body's organ systems and energy pathways. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, TCM seeks to identify and correct the underlying pattern. Using acupuncture, herbs, and dietary guidance, we work to restore balance to mind, body, and spirit.

Did you know? Acupuncture needles are extremely thin — much thinner than needles used for injections or blood draws. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or dull ache, and many find the sessions deeply relaxing.
Conditions commonly addressed

What to Expect at TruChange

Your first acupuncture visit begins with a thorough assessment of your health history, symptoms, and goals. Dr. Irene will examine your tongue, check your pulse (both diagnostic tools in TCM), and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

During your session

Acupuncture works well as a standalone treatment or as part of an integrated plan alongside conventional care. We work with your family doctor and specialists to ensure coordinated, complementary treatment.

Whether you're dealing with pain, stress, digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, or preparing for pregnancy, acupuncture may be able to help — without introducing new medications or altering existing prescriptions. Book a session to see if it's right for you.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment plan. Dr. Irene Chan is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor regulated by the College of Naturopaths of Ontario.