Caryn Beth Sherman

Caryn Beth Sherman provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Dermatological Skin

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) & Dermatitis: TCM approaches including acupuncture, internal herbal medicine, and topical herbal applications to alleviate itching, redness, and inflammation associated with eczema by clearing Heat, resolving Dampness, expelling Wind, and nourishing Blood or Yin depending on the specific TCM pattern.
• 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.

Other Common

• Support for Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's, Lupus, MS - Adjunctive Care): Focusing on harmonizing Yin and Yang, clearing pathogenic factors (like Heat or Damp), nourishing deficient substances (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang), and resolving stagnation to support overall systemic balance.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Restoring vitality and improving overall stamina by addressing underlying deficiencies and energetic blockages from a TCM perspective, often focusing on adrenal and mitochondrial support through TCM principles.
• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Natural relief from sensations of spinning, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness by addressing the root energetic imbalance.
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Supporting nerve healing and restoring facial muscle control through targeted acupuncture and TCM therapies.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Natural and effective aid to assist individuals in their journey to overcome addictive behaviors and reduce reliance on harmful substances.
• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Acupuncture, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice to address different types of sleep disturbances by harmonizing Yin and Yang, calming the mind, anchoring the Shen, and resolving underlying TCM patterns such as Heart Fire, Liver Qi Stagnation disturbing the Hun, Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to overthinking, or Kidney Yin Deficiency with empty heat.

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. Caryn can assess your needs.

• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Educating patients on the actions and benefits of their specific herbal prescription and ensuring they understand how to take their herbs safely and effectively for optimal results.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Recommendation and dispensing of pre-made, standardized, classical Chinese herbal formulas in pill, tablet, capsule, or liquid form for common conditions and TCM patterns, offering convenience, consistent dosing, and proven efficacy. (May be recommended by R.Ac within certain guidelines or more comprehensively by R.TCMP).
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: A key TCM diagnostic method where the tongue is meticulously examined as a microsystem map reflecting your body's internal health and specific imbalances.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Skilled palpation of the radial artery pulse at three positions and three depths on each wrist to assess the quality, strength, rhythm, and rate, reflecting the health and balance of Qi and Blood in the twelve major organ systems.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: A detailed initial consultation involving an in-depth discussion of your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, emotional state, and a traditional TCM diagnostic assessment (palpation, observation, listening/smelling, pulse, and tongue diagnosis) to identify your unique TCM pattern of disharmony.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: A holistic diagnostic approach incorporating visual assessment and physical touch to complement tongue and pulse diagnosis for a complete TCM picture.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Utilizing the synergistic therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese herbs, often in complex combinations, to restore organ function (Zang-Fu), balance Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood, and promote profound healing from within by addressing the root cause of illness.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Caryn, 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 Taking Care of Me: Acupuncture Health and Wellness, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Caryn frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult, Caryn helps patients work towards a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, facilitating a return to cherished activities like participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
• Understanding that feeling stressed out, anxious, overwhelmed, or panicky most of the time can be frustrating, Caryn applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels, making it possible to rediscover the joy in keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match without pain limiting them.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of pain, numbness, or tingling running down my leg (like sciatica)? Caryn works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enhanced stress management capabilities and improved coping mechanisms for daily pressures. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain.
• Many find that TCM with Caryn not only helps with chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections but also brings about reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation), allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in working at a desk or computer with reduced neck, shoulder, or back tension and clearer mental focus.

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

Caryn's practice at Taking Care of Me: Acupuncture Health and Wellness is situated in the Headon Forest area within the Palmer neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Mountainside Recreation Centre, making it accessible for local residents. It is easily reachable via Burlington Transit, providing a straightforward route for public transportation users. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, designed to promote relaxation and comfort during your treatment. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available in the vicinity, ensuring easy access for patients driving to appointments.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. The needles used are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation upon insertion. Some common sensations include a slight initial pinch, followed by a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which usually indicates the treatment is working effectively to stimulate your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and even fall asleep during the session. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and exclusively use sterile, single-use needles to ensure your safety and prevent infection. If you ever feel any notable pain, inform your Registered TCM Practitioner immediately.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner (e.g., Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist using TCM principles) uses these tools to address the root cause of health issues by identifying and correcting imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. It can help with a wide array of conditions, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term health.

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

In Ontario, patients can generally see a Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist directly without a referral from a physician (known as direct access). However, it’s important to note that some private health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to check their individual insurance policies to confirm coverage requirements.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this stimulates the flow of Qi (vital energy) along meridians, helping to restore balance and promote healing. It can reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, boost immune response, and enhance overall well-being by activating the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained; disruptions can lead to illness. **Meridians** are pathways or channels that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages or deficiencies in Qi flow within these meridians are often associated with pain and disease. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore proper Qi flow within these channels, promoting harmony and health.

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 for these services. However, some private or extended health insurance plans do offer reimbursement, depending on the coverage and the provider. Patients are encouraged to verify their insurance benefits for specific details.

Taking Care of Me: Acupuncture Health and Wellness
3455 Harvester Road, Unit 11
Burlington, ON, L7N 3P2

Phone: (905) 320-2211

Caryn Beth Sherman 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=137c5841-548a-e611-80ca-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.