Dalibor Covic

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

Dermatological Skin

• Urticaria (Hives) & Allergic Skin Reactions: Addressing underlying immune system sensitivities and internal imbalances that trigger urticarial outbreaks.
• 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.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Chronic & Acute Pain (e.g., Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Knee Pain, Sciatica): Natural and effective relief for persistent or sudden onset pain located in the lumbar or cervical spine, shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints or soft tissues.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Holistic TCM approaches, including acupuncture, gentle cupping, moxibustion, and carefully selected herbal support, to manage the complex symptoms of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, such as widespread pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and 'fibro fog'.

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. Dalibor can assess your needs.

• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): Gentle and penetrating heat therapy with mugwort to strengthen the body's vital energy, improve circulation, turn breech babies (when applied to a specific point), and relieve chronic pain or fatigue.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Therapeutic massage techniques integrated with acupressure, joint mobilization, and stretching to address pain, tension, stress, and promote overall physical and energetic well-being.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Incorporating principles of mindful movement and breath to enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM treatments and empower self-healing.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Instrument-assisted unidirectional press-stroking of the skin to break up stagnation, improve local circulation, alleviate pain, stiffness, and fever, and promote lymphatic drainage.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Guidance on incorporating specific therapeutic foods and avoiding detrimental ones to align with your TCM pattern diagnosis, enhance treatment outcomes, and support seasonal well-being.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): A traditional deep-tissue therapy using suction cups (stationary or moved along lubricated skin) to promote circulation, ease pain, break up fascial adhesions, and draw out pathogenic factors like Wind, Cold, and Dampness from the body.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: A non-invasive TCM technique that uses manual pressure on acupoints to address various health concerns, often taught for self-care or used as part of a broader TCM treatment.

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

• Acupuncture and TCM with Dalibor can be a turning point for those affected by feeling stressed out, anxious, overwhelmed, or panicky most of the time. The goal is achieving a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, paving the way for you to enjoy having the consistent energy and motivation to pursue creative outlets, learning, or personal passions and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• If feeling tired all the time, experiencing chronic fatigue, or lacking vitality is affecting your ability to participate in sleeping soundly through the night and waking refreshed and energetic, Dalibor's TCM approach aims for visible improvement in chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, with healthier-looking skin, helping you to regain your stride.
• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to looking for a holistic approach to managing a chronic health condition or autoimmune issue, Dalibor helps patients work towards achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements, facilitating a return to cherished activities like working at a desk or computer with reduced neck, shoulder, or back tension and clearer mental focus.
• Dalibor believes in a partnership with patients. When uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets a profound sense of relaxation, calm, and overall well-being following treatments, enabling a more active lifestyle including easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain.

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

Dalibor practices at Aculosophy, situated in the central Etobicoke neighborhood of Etobicoke, within an accessible acupuncture and TCM clinic. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to visit. It is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, ensuring ease of access for patients from various parts of the city. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, with convenient parking options typically available to accommodate patients' needs.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often not much thicker than a human hair, so their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick, much less intense than an injection. Once the needles are in place, you might feel a unique sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, a slight feeling of pressure or heaviness, or even a sensation of energy moving; these are generally considered positive signs that the Qi is being influenced and the treatment is taking effect. Most people find acupuncture to be a very relaxing and calming experience. Safety is paramount; registered practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles. Always communicate with your Registered TCM Practitioner if you experience any significant discomfort during treatment.

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 your practitioner about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and health conditions. Do not self-prescribe herbs or purchase them from unreliable sources, as this can pose risks of incorrect diagnosis, improper formulation, contamination, or adverse interactions. Reputable R.TCMPs source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety and efficacy.

Is there anything I should do to prepare for or after an acupuncture session?

Before your acupuncture session, have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours prior; avoid coming hungry or immediately after a heavy meal. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms, legs, and abdomen. Avoid caffeine or alcohol just before treatment. After your session, it’s best to rest and stay hydrated, with some people feeling relaxed or even a bit tired, while others may feel energized. Pay attention to any changes and discuss them with your practitioner during your follow-up visits.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years. It includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary and lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these therapies to diagnose and treat the root causes of health issues, focusing on restoring balance in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang to promote long-term health and well-being.

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

In Ontario, patients can generally consult a Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist directly without a physician’s referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to confirm coverage details.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, **Qi** (pronounced 'chee') is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body via specific pathways called **meridians**. These pathways connect internal organs with the body's surface and are the channels through which Qi and Blood circulate. Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where practitioners stimulate to restore balance and promote health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles at precise points on the body to influence the flow of Qi. It aims to restore balance, alleviate pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, and support overall health. Many conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, headaches, digestive issues, and emotional stress can benefit from regular acupuncture treatments.

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

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner in a private clinic are generally not covered by Ontario’s provincial health insurance plan (OHIP). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, though some private or extended health plans may offer partial reimbursement. It is recommended to check your individual insurance coverage for details.

Aculosophy
7-4889A Dundas St W
Etobicoke, ON, M9A 1B2

Phone: (647) 549-2281

Dalibor Covic 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=29bb6589-c876-e611-80c3-005056a97495

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.