What is Acupuncture?

“Acupuncture” encompasses both a specific technique of inserting fine needles and the broader system known as Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM). AHM integrates various modalities including manual therapies (like cupping and gua sha), herbal medicine, dietary guidelines and mind-body practices such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi.

AHM as a system is thousands of years old and stems from China but also includes other forms of Asian medical practices from Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan and Japan. The main form taught in schools is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and there are also contributions from Europe such as the Nogier Auricular and Five-Element Acupuncture systems.

Erin practices Traditional Chinese Medicine and Five-Element Acupuncture.

What does it do?

Research has elucidated several physiological effects of acupuncture including modulation of neurotransmitters, reduction of inflammation and influence on autonomic functions. These findings support acupuncture’s role in promoting homeostasis and its therapeutic benefits across various conditions.

Acupuncture accesses the fascial system—a continuous, three-dimensional network of connective tissue that envelops and interconnects muscles, organs, and other structures—through mechanical stimulation. This interaction is believed to initiate a cascade of physiological responses that contribute to acupuncture's therapeutic effects.

Who does it?

An acupuncturist is a professional who practices the technique of acupuncture and related AHM techniques based on the traditional theories and/or scientifically based understanding of the medicine. Acupuncture has expanded into diverse medical settings in the U.S. including hospitals, oncology centres, rehabilitation centres and veterans’ healthcare centres.

Registered acupuncturists are the only medical professional comprehensively trained to perform acupuncture and other AHM modalities. In Canada, other practitioners also practice acupuncture as a technique including physiotherapists, dentists, osteopaths, chiropractors, nurses, naturopathic and medical doctors. You may see terms such as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) or Dry Needling which are acupuncture techniques that are musculoskeletal in origin and have been developed in the last 60 years. Unfortunately there is a lack of consensus regarding appropriate training standards and often practitioners are practicing below the 200-hour minimum recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Currently in British Columbia, physiotherapists, dentists, naturopaths and medical doctors have acupuncture within their scope of practice.

TESTIMONIALS

“When I first tried acupuncture I really didn’t know what to expect. All I knew was that I was in pain and on very strong medication that was not working and having acute side effects. Erin has an astonishing understanding of the body, mind and soul connection. Not only was my pain gone, I was quickly off all medication and had regained mobility. Her gentle ability to read a client’s needs and give them her whole focus are a tremendous gift to us all.”

— Zoe, Richmond BC

“Although I thought I knew about acupuncture from past experiences, nothing could have prepared me for the thorough assessment, treatment and care that I received from Erin. I felt truly “heard” which was then confirmed through Erin’s treatment that nurtured my physical, physiological, emotional and spiritual healing. Thank you Erin!”

— Bonnie, Vancouver BC

“Roughly 10 Years ago - I injured my back - although skeptical at first I scheduled an appointment with Erin Moran - The treatment was beneficial to my injury. That was just the beginning. I continued to see Erin for well-being visits, which helped reduced stress, increase energy and help with other muscular pain. In fact, my wife and my children all visited Erin for regular appointments.
I highly recommend her services”

— John D.