Christina Thiffeault – Acupuncturist | Shawinigan, QC

Christina Thiffeault is a dedicated Acupuncteur (Ac.). Practicing at Acupuncture Christina Thiffeault in Shawinigan, QC, she is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Christina's role involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (such as musculoskeletal pain and headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and overall wellness support. Her care focuses on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized approaches that suit each individual's needs.

Having completed her training in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Christina combines her clinical experience with a commitment to ongoing professional development. She emphasizes holistic assessment and integrates techniques such as herbal medicine and pattern diagnosis to optimize treatment outcomes. Her practice philosophy centers on preventative care and patient education—embracing the concept of Zhì Wèi Bìng (Treat a disease before it occurs)—and she frequently utilizes time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal remedies to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore Yin-Yang harmony. She offers consultations in French.

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

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.
• 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.

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• 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: Building resilience against pathogens by fortifying the Zang-Fu organs responsible for immune function, particularly the Lungs, Spleen, and Kidneys according to TCM theory.
• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including preventative acupuncture and immune-boosting herbs, to help strengthen the body's resistance to colds and flu. For active infections, TCM aims to accelerate recovery by expelling pathogens (Wind, Cold, Heat, Damp), relieving symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches, and fatigue.
• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and TCM dietary advice to reduce allergic reactions and sensitivities, alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pain, and strengthen the body's defensive Qi (Wei Qi) to make it less reactive to allergens.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Personalized treatment plans aimed at reducing pain sensitivity, improving energy levels, enhancing sleep quality, and restoring a better quality of life for those with fibromyalgia or widespread myofascial pain.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Natural and effective relief for jaw discomfort, helping to restore normal jaw function and reduce parafunctional habits like clenching or grinding.
• Arthritis & Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis - Supportive Care): Managing arthritic symptoms by addressing underlying TCM patterns such as Bi Syndrome (Painful Obstruction due to Wind, Cold, Damp, or Heat), and nourishing Kidney essence to support bone and joint health.
• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Effective TCM management strategies for shooting, burning, or electric-shock like pain that follows nerve pathways, aiming to improve sensation and function.

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. Christina can assess your needs.

• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: An extensive assessment exploring your main health concerns through the holistic lens of TCM, including detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and observation of physical signs to determine the root cause of disharmony and guide treatment.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Assessing up to 28 distinct pulse qualities to contribute to a comprehensive TCM diagnosis, guiding the selection of appropriate acupuncture points and herbal formulas.
• 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.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Precise needling of tight muscle bands and trigger points to reduce pain, improve local circulation, and restore normal muscle tone and movement patterns.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.
• Electroacupuncture: Utilizing precisely controlled electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles to provide stronger or more sustained activation of Qi and Blood flow in the meridians.

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

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered Acupuncturists in QC and the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

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

• Let Christina help you navigate feeling tired all the time, experiencing chronic fatigue, or lacking vitality with targeted TCM care. The goal is achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements, so you can fully enjoy feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings and other life pleasures once more.
• The path to overcoming wanting to support my body's natural detoxification processes and achieving an enhanced overall quality of life and a greater capacity to enjoy daily activities and social engagements is often clearer with TCM. Christina guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as experiencing clearer sinuses and easier breathing during daily activities and exercise with improved health.
• If managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably is affecting your ability to participate in easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain, Christina's TCM approach aims for a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, helping you to regain your stride.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory? Christina works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of clearer breathing, reduced sinus congestion, and improved respiratory function. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain.

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

Christina's practice at Acupuncture Christina Thiffeault is situated within a dedicated acupuncture and TCM clinic in the central neighborhood of Shawinigan. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments comfortably. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing, with street parking often available nearby.

What types of conditions do Registered Acupuncturists at Acupuncture Christina Thiffeault treat?

Our Registered Acupuncturists treat a wide range of health concerns using Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. This includes, but is not limited to, Fibroids & Ovarian Cysts (Supportive TCM Management), arthritis & joint pain (such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), sleep disorders, women’s health issues like PMS and menopausal symptoms, and overall well-being. Treatments often involve Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds, and may also include Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis, cupping therapy, Chinese herbal medicine, or dietary advice tailored to your specific diagnosis.

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 pinch, followed by a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which indicates effective stimulation of your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and even falling asleep during the session. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and use sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If you experience any notable pain, inform your Registered Acupuncturist immediately.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic health system based on ancient principles. A Registered Acupuncturist assesses your overall health by identifying patterns of imbalance using techniques like tongue and pulse diagnosis. Treatment may include acupuncture, personalized herbal formulas (if an R.TCMP), cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle or dietary recommendations to restore balance and promote healing.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in QC?

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans or extended health benefits may require a referral for coverage purposes. It is recommended to check your individual insurance policy to confirm specific requirements.

Does Acupuncture Christina Thiffeault offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Yes, the clinic often offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) and Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP) with major private insurers. Patients should bring their insurance details and verify coverage, including any limits or requirements for herbal treatments or consultations. The patient is responsible for non-covered portions.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. This stimulates the flow of Qi (vital energy) along meridians, helping to reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and support the body's natural healing process. It is a safe, drug-free approach to enhancing overall health and well-being.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?

No, services provided by Registered Acupuncturists or TCM Practitioners in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket but should check their private insurance plans for possible reimbursement, as coverage varies widely.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that sustains health. **Meridians** are channels through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages or imbalances in Qi flow can cause illness or pain. Acupuncture aims to restore the proper flow within these meridians to promote health and balance.

Acupuncture Christina Thiffeault
582, 4e rue de la pointe , 202
Shawinigan, QC, G9N 1G8

Christina Thiffeault is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-030-23

Registration can typically be verified with The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

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.