If medications and physical therapy haven’t delivered the relief you’re seeking, it may be time to consider a more ancient form of healing that continues to gain momentum in modern medicine: acupuncture. Once viewed with skepticism in the Western medical community, acupuncture is now becoming a respected component of pain management and wellness care.

Back in 2000, Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital opened an acupuncture clinic within its Wasser Pain Management Centre to support patients dealing with chronic pain. While some doctors were initially doubtful, the results soon spoke for themselves. Not only did many patients experience pain relief, but they were also able to reduce or eliminate their use of medications like morphine and codeine. These outcomes changed minds—and treatment protocols.

Today, acupuncture is regularly recommended by physicians for a wide range of pain-related conditions: everything from migraines, sciatica, whiplash, fibromyalgia, and arthritis to post-surgical discomfort and pelvic pain. According to acupuncturists at Toronto’s Michener Institute—whose students help deliver care at the Mount Sinai clinic—between 60 to 70 percent of patients respond positively to treatment, often after other therapies have failed.

How Acupuncture Works

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves inserting ultra-fine needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. These points are believed to stimulate the flow of qi (pronounced “chee”), a vital life energy that circulates along pathways called meridians. When qi is blocked or out of balance, illness and pain can arise. Acupuncture aims to restore the smooth flow of this energy, bringing the body back into balance.

From a Western medical standpoint, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins—natural pain-relieving chemicals in the brain. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other scientific bodies also suggests it may improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and influence neurotransmitter activity, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.

Both the World Health Organization and the NIH recognize acupuncture as a viable treatment for a broad range of conditions, including digestive issues, respiratory disorders, depression, anxiety, addiction recovery, insomnia, and even chemotherapy-related nausea.

What to Look for in a Good Acupuncturist

If you’re considering acupuncture, finding a qualified practitioner is key. Here are a few things to look for:

  • Proper Certification: In Canada, a reputable acupuncturist should be certified by a regulatory college such as the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists (CTCMPAO in Ontario). You can also check with the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute.
  • Education and Training: Look for practitioners trained at accredited institutions, such as the Michener Institute, where clinical experience is part of their program.
  • Experience with Your Condition: Some acupuncturists specialize in areas like pain management, fertility, or mental health. Ask about their experience treating issues similar to yours.
  • Clean, Professional Environment: A good acupuncturist follows strict hygiene protocols and ensures that all needles are sterile and single-use.
  • Comfort and Communication: You should feel heard, respected, and well-informed about your treatment plan. A good acupuncturist will take the time to answer questions and explain the process.

Whether used alone or alongside conventional therapies, acupuncture offers a low-risk, holistic approach to managing chronic pain and promoting better health. For more information or to locate a certified practitioner, visit trusted organizations such as the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada or AcupunctureToday.com.