Provincial TCM and Acupuncture Society of Saskatchewan

Acupuncture is rarely described as painful. Typically, when the needle is inserted into the skin, there may be a pinprick sensation followed by a dull achy sensation. However, the needling sensation often relies on the skill and the intent of the practitioner. Acupuncture needles are designed with a doweled end and therefore do not cut the skin as regular injection needles do. Instead, they separate fibres to reach the acupuncture point.

When practiced by a skilled and well-trained practitioner, acupuncture is completely safe. It is possible to inflict injury with an acupuncture needle if the person providing the acupuncture is not properly trained or does not know what they are doing. When in doubt, ask about the length and location of your acupuncturist's training. Furthermore, you may ask if your practitioner is a Member of PTCMAAS. A full membership status indicates that your practitioner has met our education and safety standards.

Before undergoing any acupuncture treatment, ask the practitioner if the needles are single use (disposable). You may also inquire about how they dispose of their needles. You should see your practitioner place used needles into a Sharps container designed for proper disposal. Proper hand washing or use of gloves should be observed.

The world health organization lists many diseases that acupuncture is able to treat. The most common uses for acupuncture in the West include:

• pain management

• stress

• drug abuse

• smoking

• gastrointestinal (GI) disorders

• gynecological and obstetric problems

• fibromyalgia

• chronic fatigue.

However, acupuncture can be used to treat a number of symptoms and conditions that do not have a specific Western Medicine diagnosis. Traditional Chinese Acupuncturists will use a series of questions and observations to arrive at a pattern diagnosis and determine if it is possible to treat your condition with acupuncture.

Many Saskatchewan employee insurance plans cover acupuncture treatments and assessments to some degree. A few insurance plans cover overall TCM including herbal treatment. Check your insurance policy or your Human Resources (HR) office. Saskatchewan Health does not cover acupuncture or TCM. SGI Auto does cover acupuncture under specific conditions. Ask your SGI Claims case worker. Acupuncture treatments provided by PTCMAAS members are covered by these insurance providers. Individual PTCMAAS members may be covered by other insurance providers. Since providers, policies, and professional association agreements do change, the most certain way to know your current coverage is to ask your own insurance provider.

PTCMAAS does not give tax advice. We recommend that patients consult an accountant or contact the Canada Revenue Agency for advice.