Chisung Kim

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

Other Common

• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Differentiating the cause of dizziness (e.g., Meniere's disease support, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - BPPV support) from a TCM viewpoint and applying specific treatments to restore balance.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and tonifying herbal therapies to address the profound exhaustion and complex symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by strengthening Spleen Qi, nourishing Kidney Essence (Yin and Yang), resolving Dampness, and calming the Shen.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and gentle herbal therapies to help manage common side effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, dry mouth, insomnia, and anxiety, thereby improving quality of life and treatment tolerance. (Always in coordination with primary oncology care).

Respiratory Allergy & Immune

• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Using specific acupuncture points and potent herbal formulas tailored to the stage and nature of the cold or flu (e.g., clearing Wind-Cold versus Wind-Heat invasions) to shorten duration and lessen severity.
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Addressing underlying Lung, Spleen, and Kidney deficiencies that often contribute to chronic respiratory conditions and recurrent coughs, aiming to reduce frequency and severity of attacks.

Mental & Emotional Sleep

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Supportive TCM care to help restore a sense of safety, peace, and emotional resilience for those affected by trauma.
• Depression, Low Mood & Mood Swings (Supportive TCM Care): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, as a supportive and complementary approach to manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression, persistent low mood, and emotional lability by regulating neurotransmitter balance indirectly, moving stagnant Qi, and nourishing deficient substances like Blood or Yin.
• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Identifying specific TCM patterns contributing to poor sleep (e.g., difficulty falling asleep versus waking frequently) and providing personalized treatments to re-establish healthy sleep-wake cycles.

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. Eric can assess your needs.

• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Targeting specific motor points (areas where nerves enter muscles) or Ashi (tender) points with acupuncture needles to release muscle trigger points, alleviate myofascial pain, restore muscle function, and improve range of motion. (May be described as dry needling when performed by an acupuncturist within a TCM framework).
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): Targeted stimulation of scalp acupoints to influence the central nervous system, improve motor function, alleviate paralysis or paresis, and treat complex pain syndromes.
• TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Practical strategies for living in harmony with nature, managing daily stressors effectively, conserving vital energy (Qi), and cultivating healthy habits from a TCM perspective to support overall resilience and a vibrant life.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Ear acupuncture or acupressure (using seeds for prolonged stimulation) to address issues like pain, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation, NADA protocol), stress, anxiety, and internal disorders by targeting corresponding reflex points on the ear.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific acupoints on the body's meridians (energy pathways) to stimulate Qi (vital energy) flow, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, regulate organ function, and promote natural healing.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Incorporating principles of mindful movement and breath to enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM treatments and empower self-healing.
• Electroacupuncture: A form of acupuncture where a small, gentle, and continuous electrical current is passed between pairs of acupuncture needles to enhance stimulation of acupoints and therapeutic effects, particularly effective for chronic pain, neurological conditions, and muscle spasm.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Eric, 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 BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

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

• If asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care is affecting your ability to participate in walking, hiking, or cycling with less joint pain, improved endurance, and better recovery, Eric's TCM approach aims for reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, helping you to regain your stride.
• Rediscover your ability to planning and participating in future events with confidence in their health and well-being without the burden of frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness. Eric focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For wanting help to quit smoking or manage withdrawal symptoms from other addictions, Eric crafts treatments to achieve a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, supporting a return to activities like handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with better ease with comfort and confidence.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory and achieved a stronger, more robust, and resilient immune system, leading to fewer colds, flu, or other infections under the care of Eric, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation with renewed vitality and ease.

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

Eric's practice at Kitsilano Community Acupuncture is situated in the Kerrisdale South, Dunbar South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Britannia Community Centre and is easily accessible via TransLink, including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, and accessible parking options are typically available, making your visit comfortable and convenient.

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

In BC, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner, directly without needing a referral from a doctor (known as direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required, some private and extended health insurance plans may mandate one for reimbursement. Patients are advised to check their individual insurance policies to understand their coverage requirements.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is a fundamental concept in TCM, representing the vital energy or life force that energizes and sustains the body. When Qi flows smoothly and in abundance, health is maintained. **Meridians** are network channels, akin to rivers, that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. Disruptions or blockages in these meridians can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the proper flow of Qi within these pathways to promote health and balance.

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), Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to select high-quality herbs, identify potential herb-drug interactions, and avoid contraindications, especially during pregnancy or for specific health conditions. It is crucial to inform your practitioner about all medications you are taking. Self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions. Trusted suppliers who perform quality testing are typically used by R.TCMPs.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by MSP in BC?

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) are generally not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Most patients pay out-of-pocket, though many private insurance plans offer varying levels of coverage for these services. Patients are encouraged to check their individual insurance policies to understand their reimbursement options.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often thinner than a human hair. Insertion usually causes little to no pain, sometimes just a tiny prick. Once in place, you may feel sensations like dull ache, warmth, tingling, or heaviness, which indicate Qi movement and are considered positive signs. Most individuals find acupuncture relaxing. Registered practitioners only use sterile, disposable needles, ensuring safety. Communicate with your practitioner if you experience discomfort during treatment.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate Qi flow, based on TCM principles. It can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, alleviate stress, and support organ function, thereby promoting natural healing and balance across various health conditions.

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

TCM is a comprehensive medical system with a history spanning thousands of years, including therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, cupping, and dietary advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner diagnoses and treats imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing root causes of health issues to restore harmony and support long-term wellness.

Kitsilano Community Acupuncture
2948 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V6K 2G8

Phone: (604) 428-1260

Chisung Kim is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

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.