Acupuncture in Downtown Vancouver

Restore balance from the root

Acupuncture is one of the core therapies of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Fine, sterile, single-use needles are placed at specific points to support the smooth flow of Qi and help the body find its own balance. Rather than chasing symptoms one by one, your acupuncturist looks at the whole pattern, sleep, digestion, stress, energy and pain, and treats the root of the imbalance.

Our Registered Acupuncturists are licensed with the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC (CCHPBC). Treatments are calm, unhurried and tailored to you, and most extended health plans cover acupuncture by a registered practitioner.

What people commonly come to us for

• Back, neck and shoulder pain, sciatica and sports injuries
• Stress, anxiety and feeling run-down
• Sleep difficulties
• Headaches and migraines
• Digestive and hormonal concerns
• Pregnancy, fertility and postpartum support
• Natural facial rejuvenation

What to expect at your first visit

Your initial appointment includes a thorough health history, traditional pulse and tongue assessment, and a full treatment. Most people find acupuncture deeply relaxing, many drift off while the needles rest. Your practitioner may also include cupping, moxibustion or gua sha where it suits your plan.

Acupuncture at The Qi Station

Our Registered Acupuncturists practise Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture. Each treatment is based on a full assessment, including your health history and traditional pulse and tongue diagnosis, so the points chosen reflect your whole pattern rather than a single symptom.

Depending on your needs, a session may also include cupping, moxibustion, gua sha or acupressure. Delphine has practised in Vancouver since 2009 and opened her downtown clinic in 2017. Trace-Ace became a registered acupuncturist in 2022 and focuses on pain and stress relief, facial acupuncture and microneedling.

How to prepare for your appointment

• Have a light meal an hour or two before, so you are not hungry or very full
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that rolls up easily above the knees and elbows
• Bring a list of any medications and supplements you take
• Allow a little extra time after your session to rest and drink some water

Frequently asked questions

Does acupuncture hurt?

The needles are hair-thin. You may feel a brief pinch, warmth, heaviness or a dull ache at the point, which usually settles quickly. Most people are surprised by how relaxing it is.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on what you're working on and how long you've had it. Your acupuncturist will suggest a plan after your first assessment, and check in on progress as you go.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Many extended health plans cover treatment by a Registered Acupuncturist. Check your plan's details; we provide receipts for every visit.

Acupuncture is a complementary therapy. It works alongside, not instead of, care from your physician or specialist. Please tell your practitioner about any diagnoses, medications or pregnancy.

What if my doctor says nothing is wrong?

Many people come to us with symptoms that are real but hard to explain or diagnose. Traditional Chinese Medicine looks at patterns across the whole body, which can offer a different way to understand and support peculiar or persistent symptoms. Keep your doctor involved, and let us take a look too.

What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Both use fine needles, but they come from different training. Acupuncture is a complete system of Traditional Chinese Medicine that assesses the whole body, and in BC it is practised by Registered Acupuncturists. Dry needling is a technique, often used by physiotherapists, that focuses on releasing specific muscle trigger points.

Are the needles single-use?

Yes. We only use sterile, single-use, disposable needles.