Clayton Willoughby

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

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Addressing neuropathic pain by invigorating Qi and Blood flow along affected meridians, nourishing Yin and Blood to repair damaged nerves, and resolving blockages or stagnation.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Acupuncture and local soft tissue techniques to alleviate jaw pain, clicking, locking, and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorders by relaxing masticatory muscles, reducing inflammation, and improving local Qi and Blood flow.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life for individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. (Used alongside conventional medical management).
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: TCM strategies to identify and manage dietary and emotional triggers for digestive distress, improve nutrient absorption, and restore comfortable and regular bowel function.
• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Acupuncture and tailored herbal formulas to regulate bowel movements by addressing the specific TCM pattern causing chronic constipation (e.g., Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency with dryness, Heat accumulation) or persistent diarrhea (e.g., Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yang deficiency, Damp-Heat in the intestines).
• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Acupuncture (especially point Pericardium-6) and gentle herbal remedies to effectively reduce nausea and vomiting associated with various causes, including morning sickness during pregnancy, side effects of chemotherapy or medications, or motion sickness.

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. Clayton can assess your needs.

• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Incorporating principles of mindful movement and breath to enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM treatments and empower self-healing.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Acupuncture techniques focused on deactivating muscle knots and relieving musculoskeletal pain by stimulating specific reactive points in muscles and fascia.
• 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.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Comprehensive coaching to help you integrate TCM wisdom into your daily life for improved balance, vitality, mental clarity, and emotional well-being, fostering a proactive approach to health.
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): A contemporary acupuncture technique involving the insertion of needles into specific therapeutic zones on the scalp that correspond to different body functions and brain areas (e.g., motor, sensory, balance zones), primarily used for neurological disorders, stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain, and psycho-emotional conditions.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Using food as medicine according to traditional Chinese dietary wisdom to strengthen organ function (especially Spleen and Stomach), improve digestion, build Qi and Blood, clear pathogenic factors, and promote overall harmony and longevity.

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

• If curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach is affecting your ability to participate in sleeping soundly through the night and waking refreshed and energetic, Clayton's TCM approach aims for reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, helping you to regain your stride.
• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to irregular, painful, or heavy periods, or really difficult PMS symptoms, Clayton helps patients work towards enhanced stress management capabilities and improved coping mechanisms for daily pressures, facilitating a return to cherished activities like returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from that nagging back pain that just won't go away and achieved better regulation of body temperature, feeling less prone to being overly cold or hot under the care of Clayton, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings with renewed vitality and ease.
• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For general feeling of being 'off' or 'out of balance' energetically, Clayton crafts treatments to achieve feeling significantly calmer, less anxious, and more emotionally balanced and resilient, supporting a return to activities like playing with children or grandchildren more comfortably and with sustained energy with comfort and confidence.

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

Clayton practices at Nanaimo Acupuncture, situated in the South Nanaimo, University District neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Bastion and is easily accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic offers a serene environment designed for healing and relaxation, with accessible facilities and typically available parking options to support your visit.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Absolutely. TCM offers gentle and effective options for all ages. Pediatric TCM may involve techniques like Shonishin (a non-invasive needling technique), acupressure, and dietary advice. For seniors, acupuncture and herbal medicine can be excellent for managing age-related conditions, pain, and improving quality of life. Your Registered TCM Practitioner will always adapt the treatment to be appropriate and comfortable for the individual's age and health status.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

In general, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are not covered by the provincial health plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners. Patients are encouraged to check their individual insurance policies for specific coverage details, as levels of reimbursement can vary widely.

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

Patients in BC can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner (such as an R.Ac or R.TCMP) directly without a referral from a physician (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to consult your insurance provider to confirm their requirements before your appointment.

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, and support overall balance and health. It encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms and can be effective for a range of conditions including pain, emotional health, and functional disorders.

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

TCM is a comprehensive medical system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner diagnoses imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, and uses these therapies to address various health issues, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term wellness.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body via pathways called meridians. These meridians connect internal organs with the exterior, facilitating the circulation of Qi and Blood. Acupuncture points along these meridians are targeted to restore balanced flow, supporting health and healing.

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

When prescribed by a qualified and registered TCM practitioner with extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. It is important to inform your practitioner of all medications and health conditions to avoid adverse interactions. Self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to potential risks such as incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or interactions.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be comfortable and relatively painless. The needles are very thin, and many individuals feel only a slight pinch or tingling sensation. Practitioners use sterile, single-use needles and are highly trained in safe needling techniques, ensuring your safety and comfort. If you experience any discomfort, you should inform the practitioner immediately.

Nanaimo Acupuncture
802 Fitzwilliam St
Nanaimo, BC, V9R 3B8

Phone: (250) 591-5412

Clayton Willoughby 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.