Acupuncture Social

Acupuncture / Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. This technique aims to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and restore balance to the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee"), the vital life force believed to circulate through energy pathways called meridian... Read More

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. This technique aims to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and restore balance to the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee"), the vital life force believed to circulate through energy pathways called meridians. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, stress, digestive issues, insomnia, and fertility problems. Its history dates back over 2,000 years in China, and it has evolved over time, with different schools and techniques emerging, such as Japanese acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, and electro-acupuncture.

One particularly effective and modern approach within acupuncture is the Balance Method, popularized by Dr. Richard Tan. This method is based on classical Chinese theories but focuses on immediate pain relief and systemic balance through a logical and efficient framework. It emphasizes distal needling, where needles are placed in areas distant from the site of pain or dysfunction, often resulting in rapid and observable improvements. The Balance Method uses mirroring and imaging systems to select corresponding points on the body, providing a dynamic and holistic approach to treatment. As acupuncture has gained global recognition, scientific studies continue to explore its benefits, often highlighting its role in pain management, stress reduction, and improving overall well-being by promoting balance in both body and mind.

Dr. Stephanie Yip, R.Ac., DTCM Dr. Stephanie Yip is a licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Registered Acupuncturist with over a decade of clinical experience. She graduated from the four-year Doctorate program at the Calgary College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture in 2012 and passed the Alberta Acupuncture Registration Exams (AARE) in 2011. Since then, she has mentored under several respected local doctors and pursued advanced study across a wide range of health conditions.

Dr. Yip specializes in Balance Method acupuncture, a lineage-based system passed down from master to student and popularized by Dr. Richard Tan. This channel-based approach is best known for delivering fast, reliable relief from conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, nerve pain, inflammation, and internal imbalances like hormonal issues, digestive disorders, and emotional distress. In addition to acupuncture, Dr. Yip draws from a broad toolkit to support her patients—using electroacupuncture, fire cupping, auricular therapy, gua sha, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and tuning forks. She selects the modalities that best suit your unique presentation and health goals, ensuring each treatment is personalized and effective.

She treats a full spectrum of conditions including women’s health, postpartum recovery, neuropathy, emotional and psychological health, stress management, and long-term wellness and longevity. Known for her grounded presence, strong clinical intuition, and clear communication, Dr. Yip creates a collaborative and supportive space where patients feel heard and cared for throughout their healing journey.

“I believe a good health practitioner is someone who can remain humble, curious, compassionate and maintain an open mind. After years of practice, I still uphold these values, maybe even more so! My treatment philosophy aligns with the fundamentals of Traditional Chinese Medicine – health is an ongoing process of maintaining balance within the body. Locate the root or underlying cause of your issue in order to construct lasting change – supporting your body’s ability to perform its natural functions optimally with minimal interventions. I believe taking the time to go over all the variables and individual needs is vital to each person’s journey, I never want a patient to feel unheard. Collaboration, consistency and understanding are fundamental in achieving positive results with Chinese Medicine. I love being a pivotal part of my patients’ healthcare team! To be able to build long-lasting relationships, and see my patients through all their stages! Come for acute or chronic conditions and then to maintain health and longevity! I love what Chinese medicine can do and after all these years I still find myself incredibly passionate and humbled by this job!” - Dr. Yip

Dr. Stephanie Yip, R.Ac., DTCM Dr. Stephanie Yip is a licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Med... Read More

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Located at: 3109 Palliser Dr SW, Calgary
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