Andrew Fun Sing Choi

Andrew Fun Sing Choi provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Natural and effective strategies for managing acute allergy symptoms and reducing the frequency and severity of chronic allergic rhinitis or sinusitis.
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a supportive and complementary approach to manage asthma and chronic bronchitis symptoms by strengthening Lung Qi and Wei Qi, resolving phlegm and dampness, descending rebellious Lung Qi to calm wheezing and cough, and tonifying Kidney Qi to grasp the Lung Qi.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: A proactive and preventative TCM approach to enhance your body's natural defense mechanisms, reduce susceptibility to illness, and promote robust, long-term immunity.

Dermatological Skin

• Psoriasis (Supportive TCM Care): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, to help manage psoriasis flare-ups by clearing Blood Heat, invigorating Blood circulation, resolving Dampness, and nourishing Yin to address skin scaling, redness, and itching. (As an adjunct to dermatological care).
• Rosacea (Supportive TCM Care): A gentle, holistic approach to calm skin redness and improve overall complexion for individuals with rosacea.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) & Dermatitis: Holistic care for eczema, focusing on reducing flare-ups and improving skin barrier function from a TCM perspective.
• Acne (Vulgaris, Cystic, Hormonal): Targeting the root causes of acne breakouts, whether related to diet, stress, hormonal fluctuations, or internal toxicity according to TCM diagnosis.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Andrew can assess your needs.

• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): A subtle and sophisticated TCM diagnostic technique requiring extensive training, used to understand the energetic state of your Zang-Fu organs and overall constitution.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): A comprehensive form of Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork that utilizes a wide range of hand techniques (e.g., pushing, grasping, rolling, pressing, kneading) to manipulate soft tissues and joints, stimulate acupressure points, and promote the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood through the meridians, thereby relieving pain, correcting musculoskeletal imbalances, and treating various internal medicine conditions. (Typically offered by R.TCMP or specifically trained R.Ac).
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Targeting key energy points on the body with precise pressure to alleviate symptoms, support organ function, and enhance overall well-being.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: Thorough first visit to understand your unique energetic constitution (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang, Five Elements) and identify patterns of imbalance according to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, leading to a precise TCM diagnosis.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common colds or asthma.
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): The therapeutic application of heat from burning processed mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near or on the skin at specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. This warms meridians, stimulates Qi and Blood flow, dispels Cold and Dampness, strengthens Yang energy, and can alleviate conditions associated with cold, stagnation, or deficiency.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: In-depth analysis of various tongue characteristics to help formulate an accurate TCM pattern diagnosis and a highly individualized treatment plan.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Andrew, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered TCM Practitioners in ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

At ACA Health Centre, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Andrew frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Andrew believes in a partnership with patients. When ringing in the ears (tinnitus) that's bothersome arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets an enhanced overall quality of life and a greater capacity to enjoy daily activities and social engagements, enabling a more active lifestyle including planning and participating in future events with confidence in their health and well-being.
• When wanting to improve my overall energy, focus, and vitality naturally is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Andrew can help you work towards accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity, aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy engaging in mindful practices with a calmer and more centered state of mind.
• Let Andrew help you navigate uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes with targeted TCM care. The goal is a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically, so you can fully enjoy having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions and other life pleasures once more.
• Understanding that fertility challenges, trying to conceive, or wanting to prepare my body for pregnancy can be frustrating, Andrew applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, making it possible to rediscover the joy in being able to concentrate better on tasks requiring mental focus for longer periods.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Andrew, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Andrew practices at ACA Health Centre, situated in a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central neighborhood of Scarborough. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-served by local public transit routes, ensuring easy transportation options for visitors. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) or Doctor of TCM (Dr.TCM), who has extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications for specific health conditions or during pregnancy. It is important to inform the practitioner about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and existing health conditions. Patients should avoid self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources, as this can lead to incorrect diagnosis, improper formulations, contamination, or adverse interactions. Reputable R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers who perform quality testing to ensure safety.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in ON?

In Ontario, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a referral from a doctor (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to confirm specific requirements.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Generally, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in private clinics are not covered by Ontario's OHIP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket. It is recommended to review your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for these services, though levels of reimbursement vary.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. **Meridians** are network channels that carry Qi and Blood, connecting organs and tissues throughout the body. Proper flow of Qi within these meridians is essential for health. Blockages, deficiencies, or excesses can cause illness or pain. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the balanced flow of Qi within the meridians.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often thinner than a human hair, making insertion usually painless or just a tiny prick. You might feel sensations like a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or pressure, which are signs that Qi is being influenced. Most people find acupuncture relaxing. Registered practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles to ensure safety. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience discomfort.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner help?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system with therapies including acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these methods to identify and correct imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues. It can help with a wide range of conditions, promoting overall harmony and health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at specific points on the body to restore the flow of energy (Qi). It is effective for managing pain, stress, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and more by activating the body's self-healing mechanisms. Performed by a qualified practitioner, it offers a safe and natural approach to improving health and well-being.

ACA Health Centre
310-3420 Finch Ave. East
Scarborough, ON, M1W2R6

Phone: (416) 716-8778

Andrew Fun Sing Choi is regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Verify registration with The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario: https://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/member-profile/?contactid=336ce7a0-a376-e611-80c1-005056a97495

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.