Patricia MacPherson, Registered Acupuncturist
About
Patricia MacPherson offers individual, whole body, private acupuncture sessions. With 29+ years of experience, her treatments are both gentle and thorough.
Patricia was born and raised in Powell River and has travelled to many places. She began her training with a three year apprenticeship in Japanese Classical Shiatsu and went on to obtain a diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine, graduating from the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Victoria, B.C. in 1995.
Patricia is continuously upgrading her education and knowledge by taking courses in her field.
She is an avid boater, loves to hike, and spent many years as a fine art photographer.
Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, best known for its ability to relieve pain, is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems.
During treatment, fine, sterile needles are inserted into acupuncture points. In her practice, Patricia uses thin, flexible, Japanese style needles. Generally little or no discomfort is felt during treatment. In fact, she has observed that patients often fall asleep during treatment.
Acupuncture points are places where energetic pathways (meridians) communicate with the surface of the body. Electrical charge can be measured scientifically at these points. Each point has particular effects on the energy passing through it, and treatment points are selected according to the individual patient’s needs.
Japanese Moxibustion
Japanase moxa is highly refined version of the Artemisa Vulgaris plant (a member of the mugwort family). Small rice grain size pieces of moxa are ignited at the appropriate meridian points. Components of moxa are then absorbed through the skin. Japanese scientific research has shown that moxibustion stimulates both the body’s immune defences and its powers of recovery. The moxibustion treatment process is discussed and clearly explained prior to use.
Basics of Oriental Medicine
The Oriental Medical System is based on an energetic model that dates back thousands of years. In Oriental Medical philosophy, potential energy is called Tao (Japanese). This Tao underlies all phenomenon. The manifestation of Tao in the body is known as Ki (Japanese) or Qi (Chinese). Qi is the vital energy that permeates all living beings and makes all functioning possible.
Qi energy pathways, known as meridians, are linked throughout the body, and should be in balance for optimal health and wellness. Meridians were mapped out by ancients based on their observations and experiments. Relationships between meridians and organs have been scientifically verified in research studies.
Health and Illness
In Oriental Medicine, good health is considered to be a state of energy balance within the body. The basic principle is to balance the body’s energy so that healing may take place or so that disease may be prevented. As body, mind, and spirit are seen as interconnected, imbalance in one is accompanied by disturbance in another. Acupuncture triggers the body to adjust itself towards balance, which then brings the mind, spirit, and emotions into harmony, resulting in overall health and higher resilience from disease.
Some Conditions for treatment
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Psychological
Stress
Anxiety/depression
Insomnia -
Physical
Musculoskeletal Injuries Pain
Chronic conditions
Arthritis -
Immunity
Allergies
Digestion
Illness resilience -
Urinary & reproductive
Fertility
Kidney Support
Urinary Tract Issues
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Recovery
Ongoing wellness
Post surgery
Injury rehabilitation
Frequently asked questions
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Many extended medical plans cover acupuncture services. You must submit directly to your insurance provider for payment reimbursement.
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First treatment session will be $120 and subsequent treatments are $110 per treatment. Treatment length is generally 1 hour.
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Acupuncture is generally not painful and many people find it to be a relaxing experience. If you have a specific condition you are looking to treat or any concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.
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Many conditions are relieved rapidly. However, some conditions, especially those that have developed over a number of years, may require more treatment.
Each person is different, and each person's intrinsic healing ability differs. Diet, lifestyle, and the strength of a person's desire to improve their health has a large impact on the course of their treatment. In some cases, it may be advisable to contact a regular M.D. In these cases an Oriental Medicine practitioner and your doctor may be able to work for you in an integrative way.
Ready to give acupuncture a try? Book an appointment today!
Do you have more questions?
Reach out and call my office at 604-485-0250 for answers.