Licensed naturopathic acupuncture for comprehensive health
Naturopathic acupuncture inserts fine, sterile needles at specific body points to address pain, digestive disorders, stress, and various health conditions. Revibe Mississauga provides acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) services performed by licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) at 2290 Dixie Road, Mississauga, ON L4Y 1Z4. Licensed NDs complete 200+ hours of acupuncture education during four-year naturopathic medical programs, combining TCM principles with biomedical understanding for comprehensive care.
What is Naturopathic Acupuncture & TCM
Naturopathic acupuncture integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with biomedical understanding. Licensed naturopathic doctors in Ontario register with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO), which regulates acupuncture within the naturopathic scope of practice. Training includes meridian theory, point location, needling techniques, TCM diagnosis, and clinical applications.
NDs assess conditions through both Western diagnostic methods (physical examination, laboratory testing) and TCM diagnostic techniques (pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, meridian palpation). This dual approach provides comprehensive assessment addressing both conventional medical understanding and energetic imbalances described in Chinese Medicine theory.
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Treatment Approach
Acupuncture sessions at Revibe involve detailed intake including medical history, current symptoms, pulse diagnosis, and tongue examination. Practitioners identify TCM patterns and develop treatment principles addressing primary complaints while treating underlying imbalances. Initial treatments use 8-15 needles typically, inserted at specific acupuncture points where qi (vital energy) concentrates. Needles remain inserted for 15-30 minutes while patients rest quietly. Many fall asleep during treatment—a sign of deep relaxation and parasympathetic activation.
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Who Can Benefit?
Acupuncture addresses both acute and chronic conditions including pain management, musculoskeletal disorders, headaches, digestive complaints, anxiety, insomnia, women's health concerns, men's health issues, respiratory conditions, and immune function. Treatment works for various ages and health conditions, with practitioners adjusting techniques based on individual presentation and sensitivity.
Conditions Treated with Acupuncture & TCM
Our licensed naturopathic doctors at Revibe use acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to address a wide range of health conditions affecting physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
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Pain Management
Acupuncture addresses acute and chronic pain including lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, knee osteoarthritis, and headaches. Needle insertion triggers endorphin release—the body's natural pain-relieving compounds. Treatment protocols combine local points at pain sites with distal points along affected meridians. Lower back pain treatments include local points at lumbar spine plus distal points on legs and feet. Multiple sessions accumulate effects—pain reduction increases with consistent treatment.
Common scenarios:Chronic lower back pain from sitting, neck tension from computer work, knee pain from osteoarthritis, shoulder pain limiting mobility, post-injury pain management.
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Headaches and Migraines
Tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches respond to acupuncture treatment. Point selection depends on headache location, quality, and accompanying symptoms. Frontal headaches use Stomach and Large Intestine meridian points. Temporal headaches involve Gallbladder meridian points. Vertex headaches engage Liver meridian points. Occipital headaches utilize Bladder and Gallbladder points like GB20 (Fengchi). Preventive treatments between headache episodes reduce frequency and severity.
Common scenarios:Tension headaches from stress, migraines with visual aura, cervicogenic headaches from neck dysfunction, chronic headache management without medication reliance.
Digestive Disorders
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, diarrhea, bloating, acid reflux, and nausea respond to acupuncture protocols. Stomach and Spleen meridian points regulate digestive function. ST36 (Zusanli) strengthens digestive qi. PC6 (Neiguan) reduces nausea. ST25 (Tianshu) regulates intestinal function. CV12 (Zhongwan) addresses upper digestive symptoms. Treatments combine with dietary modifications and herbal medicine for comprehensive digestive care.
Common scenarios:IBS with alternating bowel habits, chronic bloating and gas, acid reflux and heartburn, nausea during pregnancy, post-meal digestive discomfort.
Anxiety, Stress, and Insomnia
Acupuncture modulates the autonomic nervous system, reducing sympathetic (fight-or-flight) activity and enhancing parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) function. Heart, Pericardium, and Spleen meridian points calm mental activity. HT7 (Shenmen) calms the spirit. PC6 (Neiguan) reduces chest tightness and anxiety. Yintang (Third Eye point) promotes mental relaxation. TCM differentiates insomnia patterns—excess conditions versus deficiency patterns require different point selections for optimal results.
Common scenarios:Generalized anxiety disorder, stress-related tension, difficulty falling asleep, frequent night waking, non-restorative sleep, racing thoughts at bedtime.
Women's Health
Menstrual irregularities, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), PMS, PMDD, menopausal symptoms, and fertility concerns respond to acupuncture treatment. Liver, Kidney, and Spleen meridians regulate reproductive function. Dysmenorrhea treatments begin several days before expected menstruation using points including SP6, SP8, LV3, and CV6. Fertility treatments align with menstrual cycle phases—follicular phase treatments tonify blood and yin, ovulation treatments move qi, luteal phase treatments warm yang. Menopausal symptom management addresses hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
Common scenarios:Irregular menstrual cycles, severe menstrual cramps, PMS mood changes, fertility support during conception attempts, perimenopausal hot flashes and night sweats.
Men's Health & Respiratory Conditions
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, and low libido respond to acupuncture protocols using kidney meridian points. BL23 (Shenshu), CV4 (Guanyuan), and KI3 (Taixi) strengthen kidney qi affecting prostate and sexual function. For respiratory health, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and chronic cough respond to Lung and Large Intestine meridian points. LI20 (Yingxiang) treats nasal congestion. LU7 (Lieque) addresses cough and sore throat. Seasonal allergy treatments begin several weeks before allergy season for preventive effects.
Common scenarios:Prostate health concerns, sexual dysfunction, seasonal allergies, chronic sinusitis, asthma management, immune support during cold and flu season.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory & Common Points
TCM theory provides the foundation for point selection and treatment strategies. Understanding meridian systems, yin-yang balance, and commonly used acupuncture points helps explain treatment approaches:
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Qi (pronounced "chee") represents vital energy flowing through the body along pathways called meridians or channels. Twelve primary meridians correspond to organ systems: Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Bladder, Kidney, Pericardium, Triple Burner, Gallbladder, and Liver. Each meridian contains specific acupuncture points where qi concentrates or can be accessed through needle insertion. The body contains over 360 classical acupuncture points plus additional extra points used for specific conditions.
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Yin represents qualities including coolness, rest, interior, and substance. Yang represents warmth, activity, exterior, and function. Health exists when yin and yang maintain dynamic balance. Disease patterns reflect yin-yang imbalances. Excess yang creates heat symptoms including fever, restlessness, and inflammation. Excess yin produces cold symptoms including fatigue, pale complexion, and slow digestion. Organ systems classify as yin or yang, guiding treatment approach.
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LI4 (Hegu) between thumb and index finger addresses headaches, facial pain, and labor induction. ST36 (Zusanli) below the kneecap tonifies qi and blood, strengthens digestion, and enhances immune function. LV3 (Taichong) on the foot smooths liver qi, addresses stress and menstrual irregularities. PC6 (Neiguan) above the wrist treats nausea, anxiety, and insomnia. SP6 (Sanyinjiao) above the inner ankle addresses gynecological conditions and digestive issues. GB20 (Fengchi) at the base of skull treats headaches and neck pain.
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Pulse diagnosis assesses qi, blood, and organ function through three positions on each wrist. Each position corresponds to specific organ pairs. Pulse qualities include rate, depth, width, strength, and rhythm. Tongue diagnosis reveals internal conditions through body color, coating, shape, and moisture. Pale tongues indicate blood deficiency. Red tongues reflect heat. Purple tongues suggest blood stasis. Pattern differentiation combines symptoms, pulse, tongue, and other signs to identify TCM patterns requiring treatment.
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Moxibustion burns dried mugwort near acupuncture points to warm meridians and dispel cold, treating chronic pain and digestive weakness. Cupping creates suction through heated glass cups placed on skin, increasing local blood flow and releasing fascial adhesions. Gua sha scrapes skin with smooth-edged tools to release restrictions. Electroacupuncture attaches electrical clips to needles for intensified stimulation. Ear acupuncture treats the entire body through ear microsystem points, commonly used for pain, addiction, anxiety, and weight management.
What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment
First acupuncture appointments last 60-75 minutes including comprehensive intake, TCM diagnosis, and initial treatment. The ND documents medical history, current symptoms, medication use, and previous treatments. Physical examination includes observation, palpation, pulse diagnosis, and tongue examination to identify TCM patterns and develop treatment principles.
Needle insertion creates brief pinching sensations lasting 1-2 seconds. After insertion, patients feel minimal sensation or a dull, heavy feeling (de qi). All acupuncture needles are sterile, single-use, and FDA-approved medical devices. Needle gauges range from 0.12-0.35mm diameter—much thinner than injection needles. Most patients find treatments comfortable.
Patients commonly feel deeply relaxed after acupuncture. Some experience temporary fatigue lasting several hours—a sign of the body redirecting energy toward healing. Symptoms occasionally increase temporarily (healing crisis) before improving. Acute conditions require frequent treatments—2-3 times weekly initially. Chronic conditions respond to weekly treatments. Most conditions require 6-12 treatments before assessing effectiveness.
Integrating Acupuncture with Other Revibe Services
Acupuncture combines with clinical nutrition for digestive conditions and fertility support. Digestive protocols pair acupuncture for functional regulation with dietary modifications removing trigger foods and providing gut-healing nutrients. Fertility patients combine acupuncture for cycle regulation with nutritional protocols addressing hormonal balance and egg quality.
TCM traditionally combines acupuncture with herbal medicine. The ND prescribes botanical formulas addressing the same patterns treated through acupuncture for synergistic effects. Pain conditions combine acupuncture for immediate relief with anti-inflammatory botanicals for sustained effects between treatments.
Musculoskeletal conditions benefit from combined treatments with massage therapy and chiropractic care. Acupuncture addresses qi and blood flow along meridians while massage releases soft tissue restrictions. Chiropractic adjustments restore joint alignment while acupuncture releases muscle tension affecting joint mechanics. Combined protocols address both structural alignment and energetic flow through meridians.
This integrative approach provides comprehensive care addressing multiple aspects of health conditions. Practitioners communicate about treatment responses and progression through shared treatment notes tracking improvements. Coordination prevents conflicting approaches and optimizes recovery timelines for complex health concerns.
Safety and Contraindications
All acupuncture needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. NDs complete Clean Needle Technique certification covering infection control, proper needle handling, and safe disposal. Needle insertion sites receive alcohol swab cleaning before insertion. Needles dispose immediately after removal into sharps containers following medical waste protocols.
Acupuncture avoids areas with active infections, open wounds, or skin lesions. Patients with severe bleeding disorders or thrombocytopenia require physician clearance before acupuncture. Pregnancy contraindications include certain points that promote uterine contraction—SP6, LI4, BL60, and lower abdominal points avoid needling during pregnancy except during labor induction protocols.
Pacemakers contraindicate electroacupuncture due to potential electrical interference, though manual acupuncture without electrical stimulation is safe. Patients should eat light meals before treatments as fasting increases fainting risk. Acupuncture performed by trained practitioners using sterile technique carries minimal risks. Minor bruising occurs occasionally at needle sites, especially in patients taking blood thinners.
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Treatment Frequency
Acute conditions require frequent treatments—2-3 times weekly initially. Chronic conditions respond to weekly treatments during active care phases. Maintenance care occurs bi-weekly or monthly once conditions stabilize. Most conditions require 6-12 treatments before assessing effectiveness. Some patients notice immediate changes while others need cumulative treatments for results. Your ND will recommend a schedule based on your condition, response, and functional goals.
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Insurance Coverage
Extended health insurance plans commonly include acupuncture coverage with annual limits from $300-$2000. Per-visit reimbursement ranges from $40-$100 depending on policy terms. Revibe provides direct billing for naturopathic services including acupuncture through participating insurance providers. Some policies cover acupuncture under naturopathic benefits while others have separate acupuncture categories. Motor vehicle accident (MVA) insurance covers acupuncture for accident-related injuries.
FAQsFrequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture & TCM
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Needle insertion creates brief pinching sensations lasting 1-2 seconds. After insertion, most patients feel minimal sensation or a dull, heavy feeling. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than injection needles—most patients find treatments comfortable. Some points produce stronger sensations than others. LI4 and LV3 commonly create stronger qi sensations. Scalp and facial points rarely produce noticeable sensation.
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Acute conditions require 4-6 treatments typically. Chronic conditions need 8-12 treatments before assessing effectiveness. Maintenance care continues as needed for symptom management. Some patients notice immediate changes while others need cumulative treatments for results. Treatment frequency varies—acute conditions may require 2-3 times weekly initially, while chronic conditions typically respond to weekly treatments during active care.
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Acupuncture addresses pain conditions, headaches, digestive disorders, anxiety, insomnia, women's health concerns, men's health issues, respiratory conditions, and immune function. Research demonstrates acupuncture effectiveness for chronic pain comparable to conventional treatments. The ND assesses whether acupuncture suits individual health concerns during initial consultation.
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Acupuncture performed by trained practitioners using sterile, single-use needles carries minimal risks. Minor bruising occurs occasionally at needle sites. Serious adverse events are extremely rare when proper technique is followed. All needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. NDs complete Clean Needle Technique certification covering infection control and safe disposal protocols.
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Modern research demonstrates acupuncture affects pain pathways, immune function, neurotransmitter levels, and autonomic nervous system balance. Needle insertion triggers endorphin release—the body's natural pain-relieving compounds. Traditional Chinese Medicine explains effects through qi flow and meridian theory. Both frameworks guide clinical practice and point selection.
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Yes, with modifications. Certain points contraindicate during pregnancy while others safely address pregnancy-related symptoms including nausea, back pain, and labor preparation. Points like SP6, LI4, and BL60 avoid needling during pregnancy except during labor induction. The ND adjusts treatments appropriately for pregnancy to ensure safety while addressing maternal health concerns.
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Most patients feel deeply relaxed after acupuncture. Some experience temporary fatigue lasting several hours—a sign of the body redirecting energy toward healing. Symptoms occasionally increase briefly before improving (healing crisis). Local bruising occurs occasionally at needle sites, especially in patients taking blood thinners. Continue normal activities after treatment.
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Acupuncture complements conventional medical care. Never discontinue prescribed medications without physician consultation. Some patients reduce medication needs as conditions improve with acupuncture treatment, but medication changes require physician coordination. Acupuncture works alongside conventional treatments for integrated health management.
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No. All acupuncture needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. Each needle uses once then disposes immediately into sharps containers following medical waste protocols. This ensures complete safety and prevents any cross-contamination between patients. Clean Needle Technique certification ensures proper infection control procedures.
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Many extended health plans include acupuncture coverage with annual limits typically ranging from $300-$2000. Revibe offers direct billing for participating insurance providers. Some policies cover acupuncture under naturopathic benefits while others have separate acupuncture categories. Verify your specific coverage before booking. Motor vehicle accident (MVA) insurance covers acupuncture for accident-related injuries.
Meet Our Naturopathic Doctors
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Dr. Jennifer Tang Naturopathic Doctor -
Dr. Lisbeth Bitar Patino Naturopathic Doctor
TestimonialsWhat Our Patients Are Saying
Dr. Morgan is fantastic! He is not only skilled in chiropractic care, but also very friendly and put me at ease throughout the entire process. He take the time to listen to my concerns and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses my specific needs. The adjustments are gentle yet effective, and the stretched and exercises recommended helped me maintain my progress between appointments. I visit Dr. Morgan with my husband once every 4-5 weeks and we enjoy our session with Dr. Morgan.
Kimberly Leong MeimeiI’ve been seeing Dr. Trevor for the past few months for chiropractic care, and it’s been a great experience. He’s professional, friendly, and truly attentive. My back and neck pain have noticeably improved, and I always leave feeling better. Highly recommend him if you’re looking for genuine and effective care!
Dhaval SoniI’ve been seeing Dr. Morgan for chiropractic sessions over the past three years, and he’s been such a huge support in helping me manage my back pain and TMJ issues. You’ll truly be taken care of here. Highly recommend booking a visit if you’re in the GTA area!
Thea MI had an amazing experience with Dr. Trevor! From the moment I walked in, he was professional, welcoming, and clearly knew exactly what he was doing. I came in with pain and discomfort in my back, and after just one session, I felt such a huge difference. Dr. Trevor was super patient and took the time to show me exercises to ease my pain. He also did follow ups to make sure I was ok. I highly recommend Revibe and Dr. Trevor for all your chiro need and if you are looking for quick results !
Saniya ShahaniBook Your Appointment in Mississauga, Markham or Burlington
Revibe operates clinics in Mississauga (serving Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, and surrounding areas) and Markham (serving Unionville, Thornhill, Buttonville, and surrounding areas). Both locations provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services for your health and wellness needs.
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Mississauga Clinic
Location: 2290 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 1Z4
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
New patient visits include comprehensive assessment and first treatment session (75 minutes). Bring previous imaging reports, medical diagnoses, and lists of current symptoms. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to treatment areas.
Serving: Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, Churchill Meadows, Lorne Park, Port Credit, Clarkson, and surrounding Mississauga neighborhoods. Convenient access from Highway 403, QEW, and Erin Mills Parkway.
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Markham Clinic
Location: 220 Torbay Rd, Markham ON, L3R 1G6
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
Insurance coverage varies by provider. Extended health plans often include manual therapy and wellness services. Direct billing available for plans that Revibe accepts. Receipts provided for insurance submission or tax purposes.
Serving: Unionville, Thornhill, Markham Village, Buttonville, Milliken, Cornell, Angus Glen, and surrounding Markham and Richmond Hill areas. Easy access from Highway 7, Highway 404, and Major Mackenzie Drive.
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Burlington Clinic
Coming Soon
We're excited to announce that our Burlington location will be opening soon. Stay tuned for updates on our new clinic serving the Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas.